The Dominican Republic celebrated a historic night on September 5, 2026, when Joheirry Mola Domínguez was crowned Miss World 2026 in Nha Trang, Vietnam. The Dominican representative prevailed among contestants from 110 countries and territories in the 73rd edition of the pageant, a gala defined by its global presence, Miss World’s 75th anniversary, and a strong emphasis on social impact.
A Crown with Dominican Pride
With her victory, Joheirry Mola Domínguez became the second Dominican woman to win Miss World, following the historic path opened by Mariasela Álvarez in 1982. The new queen received the crown from Opal Suchata Chuangsri of Thailand, Miss World 2025.
Spain’s Elisabeth Reynés Alabern was named first runner-up, while Malaysia’s Taanusiya Chetty placed second runner-up. Chetty also stood out for her social project within the “Beauty With a Purpose” platform, one of the long-standing pillars of Miss World.
Who Is Joheirry Mola?
Originally from Santo Domingo, Joheirry Mola brings together a multifaceted path as a model, educator, communicator, and community advocate. She studied Business Administration and Management at Universidad Iberoamericana (UNIBE), works as a teacher of Literature and Social Studies in English, and has built a media presence connected to the Dominican community.
Her initiative “Voices of Tomorrow” seeks to expand access to English-language education and create opportunities for children and young people in vulnerable communities. That social commitment helped shape a candidacy aligned with the spirit of Miss World: beauty, purpose, and leadership with impact.
An International Final on Vietnam’s Coast
The ceremony took place in Nha Trang, one of Vietnam’s most recognized coastal destinations, as part of an edition that also commemorated 75 years of Miss World history. The pageant brought together 111 participants and unfolded through multiple stages, including preliminary challenges, cultural presentations, continental competitions, and final rounds that narrowed the field to the Top 40, Top 20, Top 12, Top 6, and ultimately the Top 3.
One of the evening’s most notable elements was the event’s global scope. Contestants from every continent participated in a production designed to highlight cultural diversity, individual talent, and the social impact projects of each representative. There were also moments of fashion and tradition, with nods to Vietnamese culture and the international legacy of the pageant.
Highlights from Miss World 2026
- The Dominican Republic made history: Joheirry Mola brought the Miss World crown back to the Caribbean and secured a symbolically powerful victory for her country.
- Spain and Malaysia completed the podium: Elisabeth Reynés Alabern was named first runner-up, and Taanusiya Chetty placed second runner-up.
- Vietnam took center stage: Nha Trang served as the setting for a seaside final that highlighted the cultural and tourism appeal of the host country.
- Social impact shaped the competition: “Beauty With a Purpose” projects continued to occupy a central role within the pageant.
- Global diversity stood out: 111 contestants took part in an edition that celebrated international representation, talent, fashion, and community commitment.
Why This Victory Matters
Beyond the crown, Miss World 2026 reinforces a broader conversation about empowerment, education, public image, and Latin representation. Joheirry Mola arrives at the title not only as a beauty queen, but as a figure whose professional and social story reflects the evolution of modern pageants: women who are educated, media-savvy, community-driven, and prepared to lead with purpose.
