Is English Language Essential When Choosing the Next Miss Universe

Everyone can definitely feel the tension and excitement as the Coronation Night of the 65^th Miss Universe happens on January 30, 2017 at the Mall of Asia Arena, Philippines. Live telecast of the event starts 8:00 am Philippine Standard Time (January 29, 7:00 pm EST). The stage is set for this much awaited monumental event as one of the 86 most gorgeous women in the world vie for the title of being the Miss Universe. Preliminary Competition was also held at the Mall of Asia Arena on January 26^th, featuring all of the candidates in their swimsuits, evening gowns and national costumes. This year’s Miss Universe winner will have her hands full living up to expectations and accomplishments made as she succeeds Miss Universe 2015 Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach from the Philippines.

               Photo by dailymirror/Twitter

With all the hoopla aside, this year’s candidates are beautiful on their own right. That is why they are chosen to represent their country in this prestigious event. But one of the biggest questions around is not about the beauty or the brains, for that matter. Is the use of English (language) essential when choosing the next Miss Universe? The whole world most likely will have an equal number of “yes” and “no” in their responses albeit the reason. Let us place the question in proper perspective.

Miss Universe is actually a brand (name) under the Miss Universe Organization, who coincidently also owns and run the Miss USA and Miss Teen USA brands. Its previous owner, then businessman and now President of the United States Donald Trump, sold the entire company to current owner WME/IMG Talent Agency. Miss Universe advocacies include disease awareness and other humanitarian efforts, serve as ambassador of goodwill, and promote the Miss Universe’s programs since it is also a brand that is part of a business venture.

Being a Miss Universe titleholder would require cooperation among the program director and its team. This would entail lots of opportunity for travel and meet people from all walks of life. Furthermore, the Miss Universe titlist should be smart and articulate at all times since she is the “face of the universe”, so to speak. It is a must for her to brush-up on both communication and people-skills. This is probably the reason why learning the English language is of great importance. People are looking-up to the Miss Universe to handle everything with grace under constant pressure from high expectations.

During the event of the Miss Universe Pageant, it may not be as important to be very eloquent in the English language at this stage; just enough to clearly express one’s thoughts is good enough. Contestants may utilize an interpreter during the Q & A portions of the pageant whenever there is difficulty in communicating what is needed. Participants in the event should think clearly and smartly, and should not be over-confident in their responses. Exuding confidence is a positive way of showing how graceful the contestant is carrying herself in each situation. However, if misinterpreted, especially by the judges and other English-speaking people, it is going to be hard to recover from costly mistakes brought forward by trying too hard to impress others.

The use of the English language is important because it is the most common tongue spoken in almost all corners of the globe. It is the main business language, and the common denominator when two or more non-Native English speakers are conversing to express their thoughts. Speaking in English may be vital in the ongoing career of the chosen Miss Universe as she will be tasked to speak with people in almost every instance of her reign.

That being said, yes, it is important to learn to speak English when communicating with the people of the world. But it is always the compassion and heart of the Miss Universe that shows the way.