The Dominican representative to the Miss Universe pageant told Diario Libre that the most challenging feat she has had to accomplish in her preparation for the contest was learning Spanish. The professional model spent months in the DR preparing for the contest that will be held Saturday, 18 November 2023 in San Salvador, El Salvador.
“My life is different today. I was forced out of my comfort zone. Today I have a greater vision of my country and more knowledge of our culture. I feel like a different person and that is growth. But the most difficult thing of all was learning the Spanish language in a very short time,” she stated.
Miss Dominican Republic, 27-year old Mariana Downing is competing against 85 contestants in the 72nd gala event. She will wear attire prepared by Dominican designers Leonel Lirio (typical costume) and Giannina Azar (evening gown).
Downing’s family is from Sanchez Ramirez province. She said her mother grew up in Cotuí.
Downing’s predecessor, Andreina Martinez, was the second runner in the Miss Universe contest in 2022.
Miss Universe will be transmitted in the Dominican Republic on Channel 9, Color Vision at 8:30pm on Saturday, 18 November 2023.
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2 November 2023