Filipina representing Hawaii wins 46th Mrs Universe
MANILA, Philippines — Filipina Meranie Gadiana Rahman won the 46th edition of Mrs. Universe representing Hawaii held in Newport Performing Arts Theater last night.
India won 1st runner-up followed by Philippines, Black Sea and Moscow.
“I have very mixed feelings. I am proud, emotional and honored at the same time. I have been competing for the last five years, sometimes winning and sometimes losing. However, I always took my loss as stairway to success by not giving up and by working harder toward my dream to win one of the most prestigious titles in the pageantry,” Meranie told Philstar.com.
“Now I have won this prestigious title Mrs Universe, and I am the first Filipina to win in the 46 years history of Mrs Universe, I just cannot control tears of gratitude falling from my eyes,” she added.
Meranie said that she will use her title as an anti-domestic violence advocate.
“I have several projects including carrying the Mrs. Universe title with prestige honesty and integrity in the whole world as well as spread Mrs Universe Advocacy of awareness about Domestic Violence. In addition I will continue my other advocacies including awareness about school and internet bullying, and Postpartum depression,” she said.
“All would like to invite women and men of the whole world in this important cause. Please commit to join by posting your comments at Mrs Universe social media site. Also I want to travel many countries as much as possible. I will be honored if I am invited or sponsored to speak about our advocacies Spouse Abuse, School bullying and Postpartum Depression awareness,” she added.
When asked why she represented Hawaii and not the Philippines, Meranie said that she represented both.
“Hawaii is my heart and Philippines is my soul. I live in Hawaii, one of the most beautiful islands in the world which prides itself of the diversity, aloha spirit and kindness of people beside beautiful beaches, lush mountains, dream weather and amazing sunsets,” she said.
“I was born and raised in Talisayan Misamis Oriental and studied in Cagayan de Oron City, Philippines. I got married to my loving husband Dr. Inam Ikeda Rahman Perreira MD about 12 years ago and moved to Hawaii. I have never forgotten my roots and my love for Philippines continue to flourish.
“In addition, Hawaii has the largest Filipino population in the world per total population after Philippines. Hawaii is another home for us Filipinos and Filipino-Americans and we are proud to belong to two of the most beautiful places in the world. This is the very reason I represent Hawaii and Philippines,” she added.
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