South Africa will for the second consecutive year host the 2009 Miss World pageant. Some believe the event is outdated and degrading to women while others see it as an opportunity for women to contribute meaningfully to the world through the charities supported by the Miss World Organisation; it has raised more than £250 million for children's charities in its 58-year run. While most of the contestants' answers revolve around world peace and saving the planet, both wonderful endeavours, the whole cattle-parading of women who are considered 'beautiful' by a panel of 'qualified' judges does seem like an antiquated event in our modern world. Beauty, in any instance, is subjective and perhaps choosing ambassadors to spread goodwill for one's country should be based principally on character and aptitude rather than appearance. Nonetheless, it is great to note that South Africa is very capable of hosting an international event, ahead of the World Cup with 199 days to kick-off. While Miss World cannot compare to the grand scale of the FIFA World Cup, the fact that the Miss World Organisation has entrusted the event to the country for a second year is confirmation of SA's ability as a host nation.

Sindy Peters, content manager
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