On Wednesday, August 12th, the opening ceremony of the 73rd Miss World 2026 Pageant was held at Halong Marina Beach Square in Quảng Ninh, Vietnam. The celebration also coincided with the 75th anniversary of the Miss World organization, with more than 120 delegates expected to participate. Representing the Jewel is Miss World Belize Faith Edgar, who graced the stage with striking elegance, poise, and confidence.
Edgar was given a heartfelt send-off on August 6th in San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye, with a parade led by the San Pedro High School Marching Band. Family and friends bid her farewell at the Tropic Air departure lounge and wished her the best as she represents Belize on the international stage.
In Vietnam, Edgar joined delegates from around the world who have been in the country since August 8th ahead of the pageant, set for September 5th in Ho Chi Minh City. The delegates have been participating in a series of opening activities in Quảng Ninh, including welcoming ceremonies, a reception, social and community activities, the official opening program, and experiences at Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other activities have showcased Vietnam’s culture and tourism.
The 24-year-old dentistry student from San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, walked on stage alongside the delegate from Bolivia during the Americas and Caribbean segment of the opening ceremony. The island beauty queen was crowned Miss World Belize on June 14, 2025.
As she prepared for the international pageant, Edgar continued contributing to her country through her Beauty with a Purpose initiative, “Smiles for Belize.” Through the campaign, she seeks to improve access to dental care and oral health education, especially for children and families in underserved communities. She has conducted fluoride clinics, taught children proper oral hygiene, and distributed educational materials and dental care kits.
Edgar is also an athlete who plays volleyball and sails. Last year, she made her international runway debut at Couture Fashion Week in New York City, New York, USA. Edgar noted that her international appearance in Vietnam is an opportunity to showcase Belize’s culture and national pride while amplifying her message that preventive dental care should be accessible to every child.
Following their activities in Quảng Ninh, the contestants will continue their nearly month-long journey across Vietnam. They will take part in the main competitions, as well as cultural, community, and local experience programs in destinations such as Hai Phong and Khanh Hoa.
The San Pedro Sun wishes Edgar all the best as she represents Belize on the international stage. Belize is rooting for you!