The Mrs World 2021 pageant took place on January 15, 2022 in Las Vegas, United States. Shaylyn Ford who represented the United States was officially crowned as Mrs World 2021, while Jaclyn Stapp held the title of 1st runner up representing Jordan and Debanjali Kamstra who represented UAE, was placed 2nd runner up. It is noteworthy that Pushpika De Silva managed to secure a place among the top six contestants to represent Sri Lanka at the Mrs World 2021, even when India missed the opportunity.
The Youth Observer spoke to Pushpika de Silva recently about her experiences.
Q: In the midst of obstacles and challenges, you made it to the top six contestants at Mrs World 2021? What was it like?
A: Yes, you are right. My journey to the top six was in the midst of many challenges that no one who competed in the Mrs World pageant faced, but I never forgot the fact that I was in Las Vegas to represent my country, Sri Lanka.
Q: The responsibilities of being a mother is huge than being just a woman. How did you manage to handle this opportunity?
A: Problems like body fat which any woman would experience after pregnancy, and being busy with my son’s work also affected me generally. I devoted much time I to losing my weight from 81 kg to 68 kg. I had a real purpose. I thought positively and did my best to reach the goals. The more challenges I faced , the more I was inspired to take a step forward. I did not only want personal victory, but also wanted to see Sri Lanka shine through my victory. I always thought that I wouldn’t be the only one who would be proud to see Sri Lanka being crowned several times. I have not and will never do anything that tarnishes the image of my country.
Q: What have you being able to give to Sri Lanka as a National Representative at the Mrs World pageant? Tell us about your social service activities?
A: Among the delegates at the Mrs World 2021 pageant, I was contributory in building two houses for two financially disadvantaged families in the Kalutara area through ‘Let The Helping Hand’ project, taking the lead in improving the nutrition of pregnant mothers and providing necessary support for the children of low-income families to go to school. While I was representing Sri Lanka at Las Vegas, I wore the traditional Kandyan saree or osariya as the national costume and I also wore a gown designed by the internationally acclaimed fashion designer Michael Cinco. I have always been interested in preserving the dignity of my home country, Sri Lanka. I would like to express my gratitude and love to the sponsors who have been a strength to me in all of this.
Q: How did you feel when Sri Lanka was announced within the top six contestants?
A: There was much hope that Sri Lanka would win the title of Mrs World 2021 as well. The last few days had many changes.
But I am very happy and proud about making it to the top six countries. This is just one contest for me. As a woman and a mother, the real challenge is to face life without being disturbed by anyone who tries to disrupt your life.
Things have not got easier in my life. But I’m not going to take any steps backward. I am sincerely glad that I have the heart to look kindly on some who may not be happy to see their country reach the international levels.
