The 72nd Miss World pageant is currently taking place in Hyderabad, India. This year, it features 108 contestants from around the world, emphasizing not only beauty but also compassion, intelligence, and cultural identity. Representing Croatia with grace and enthusiasm is Tomislava Dukić, who has made a significant impression in all official competition categories.
A Cultural Showcase
At the Dances of the World opening ceremony, Tomislava performed in a traditional Lika folk costume, proudly highlighting Croatia’s heritage through a combination of authentic dance moves and modern stage presentation.
The costume and performance received support from Lika-Senj County, showcasing the richness of Croatian tradition on a global stage.
Contest Categories and Croatian Representation
Miss World contestants are organized into four continental groups: Europe, Asia & Oceania, Africa, and the Americas & Caribbean. Tomislava is representing the European group and has excelled in all key categories.
Beauty with a Purpose—Heart of the Competition
The most significant segment of Miss World, Beauty with a Purpose, emphasizes humanitarian initiatives. Tomislava’s project involved a month of volunteering at an orphanage in Benin. Reflecting on her experience, she shared, “Children are our future and the most vulnerable members of society. Even a small act—a smile, a conversation, a helping hand—can change someone’s world. That’s what inspired my volunteering.”
Her heartfelt project has resonated with both audiences and judges, emphasizing the deeper purpose behind her involvement.
Head-to-Head Challenge—Intelligence and Engagement
In this debate-style segment, contestants showcase their humanitarian projects and personal beliefs. Tomislava seized this opportunity to express her values and aspirations for social change, demonstrating not only her eloquence but also her genuine dedication to meaningful causes.
Top Model—A Royal Tribute
Tomislava participated in the Top Model category wearing a costume inspired by the coronation of King Tomislav and the millennium anniversary of the Croatian kingdom. The historically significant design, created by Marina Lacković, founder of the fashion label Larie, aimed to embody national pride and statehood on the global stage.
Talent Show—Art with a Message
In the talent segment, Tomislava showcased a poignant painting that captured her memories from the Benin orphanage. By blending visual art with her personal story, her performance conveyed a heartfelt message of hope, empathy, and responsibility.
Sports Challenge—Strength and Spirit
As a kinesiology graduate, Tomislava participated in both individual and team sports challenges, demonstrating her athletic prowess and team spirit.
Multimedia Challenge—Digital Connection
With a vibrant and genuine presence on social media, Tomislava has been sharing insights from the competition, behind-the-scenes moments, and updates on her humanitarian efforts.
Digital engagement is becoming increasingly vital in the competition, enabling contestants to broaden their reach to global audiences.
The Road to the Crown
The competition unfolds in several stages:
- Top 40: 10 contestants from each continental group
- Top 20: 5 contestants from each group
- Top 8: 2 contestants per group
- Top 4: One finalist from each group competes for the crown.
In the end, one contestant will be crowned Miss World, with three others recognized as runners-up. Throughout the event, participants have had the opportunity to experience the beauty and spirituality of Telangana, including a visit to a historic Hindu temple.
Support and Preparation
Tomislava's trip to India received backing from ATI, the Croatian National Tourist Board, and several Croatian designers and sponsors, including Larie, Nikolina Wedding Store, Natalija Smogor, and Brokat Haute Couture. Their assistance ensured she was well-prepared and showcased Croatian fashion with grace during her month-long stay. Her family and the Miss Croatia organization will be in attendance at the grand finale in Hyderabad on May 31, providing their support as she competes for the Miss World crown.
