The Nayobie’s Hope for Children Project held its fourth annual fashion show on Saturday, November 30th at the Diamond Lodge south of San Pedro Town. Several junior and senior models graced the stage outfitted in a variety of colors that resembled the theme ‘Painting of Hope.’ The event raised funds to purchase Christmas gifts for less fortunate island children on December 25th. The project is spearheaded by islander Nayobie Rivero who was recognized at this year’s Belize Youth Awards (BYA) Gala on Friday, November 29th, where she received the Minister’s Award for Leadership and Advocacy. Rivero was also chosen to represent Belize in El Salvador at the international pageant, Miss Teen Mundial 2020. All in all, it was quite the busy weekend for Nayobie.
Hosting the fashion show was Eiden Salazar Jr., who introduced the models as they appeared in various segments and attire. They all graced the stage beautifully, drawing cheers from the attendees. From red to blue, yellow and orange, the senior and junior models’ cat-walked around the pool, exhibiting their attire in fine fashion. In between segments, prizes were raffled, and lucky winners walked away with fabulous items.
Near the end of the show, Nayobie Rivero was called to center-stage, where Miss San Pedro Litzy Castillo Guillen, along with Area Representative Manuel Heredia Jr., crowned her as Miss Teen Mundial Belize. Rivero said that she had been called to participate in Miss Teen Mundial two years ago, but decided to wait until now, and she feels more than ready. “I like modelling, photoshoots, all those things too, so I have feeling I will do well representing our country,” she said. A date for the pageant is yet to be announced but will take place sometime next summer.
Rivero spoke about her work in the community through her non-profit organization Nayobie’s Hope for Children. Rivero thanked everyone who continues to support her initiative and plans on working on projects to empower young people and continue contributing positively to the island and its young and elder residents. “I feel very happy of this achievement, and I hope I can inspire other youth to do something and make a difference,” said Rivero. She stated that she loves children and will continue helping them any way she can.
Nayobie Rivero honored at Belize Youth Awards
After being nominated, Rivero attended the annual Belize Youth Awards (BYA) in Belize City on Friday, November 29th. The event, hosted by the Department of Youth Services, celebrates outstanding and talented young people, between the ages of 14 and 29, who have shown leadership and contributed to their community. Among the many recognitions issued, Rivero was awarded the Minister’s Award for Leadership and Advocacy. She cheerfully accepted it from Deputy Prime Minister Honourable Patrick Faber, who commended her outstanding achievement and commitment to her island community. Rivero’s contribution to the society through her children’s project was recognized as innovative and emphasized how important her involvement in the development of the island community is.
The fashion show team thank the models, the event sponsors and everyone who came out to support the important fundraiser.
