FIVE-year-old Aaliya Green has made it through to the grand final of the international beauty pageant, Face Of The Globe, which will be held in Disneyland Paris.
Aaliya, from Melksham, was crowned Mini Miss Publicity and Mini Miss Charity. She was also the overall winner in her age category and the judges offered her a place in the grand finals.
Aaliya’s mum, Trina Kandola said, “It was a pretty amazing day and Aaliya had a lovely time. She really enjoyed being pampered and putting on pretty dresses. Everyone was so friendly and there was a lovely atmosphere.
“She was quite shy when we first arrived and didn’t want me to leave her but as soon as she sat down with the other girls, she was fine. She met some lovely friends, some that had been in the competition before, so showed her what to do.
“She took it all in her stride and spoke clearly and confidently when the judges asked her why she wanted to be in the finals. I was so proud of her, she is only five and she is so little, so to stand up in front of everyone and speak, it was quite a big thing.
“Aaliya has raised £500 for the competition’s charity, the Rainbow Child Foundation so far but we would like to raise £3,000 if we can. Businesses in Melksham have been so generous and we would like to say a big thank you to Melksham Tyres, Keith Lye, Newsbox, Two Little Ducks and South of Heaven Body Art.
“Before the competition I explained to her that it didn’t matter if she didn’t get to the final because she had already done brilliantly. There was no pressure whatsoever, but when they called her name out, I screamed! We are going to take the whole family and have a holiday; it’s not every day you get to go to Disneyland Paris so we thought it would be nice for her brother and sister as well.
“Aaliya has also been asked to switch on Melksham’s Christmas lights which she is very excited about. When I asked her how she felt she said, “Mum, I feel like a Queen!”
The finals will take place in April, so Aaliya will still be raising money for the Rainbow Child Foundation until then. If you would like to donate, visit www.justgiving.com/Aaliya-Green
