The countdown to the world’s most coveted Miss World title has begun. With less than a month before the big event which will be held on the 12th December in South Africa’s city of gold Johannesburg, major preparations are under way.

One hundred and twelve (112) of the world’s most beautiful ladies will be the centre of attention on this night as they strut their stuff on the stage - all in pursuit of the Miss World title, the chance to be crowned the most beautiful woman in the world and the perks that come with the title.

Our very own Miss Botswana 2009, Sumaiya Marope, jetted off to South Africa this past week where she will be joining other participating queens from over 100 countries across the world. Having won this crown for the past six months, our reigning queen is confident that she will represent the country well.

As part of her preparations for the prestigious event, Sumaiyah has been working round the clock fulfilling her national social responsibility duties, which include working with Childline Botswana and the Kopong Home Based Care, all of which will be included in her profile to be presented to the masses attending next month’s event.

Limkokwing University, where she is currently enrolled as a second year student in the Marketing Management department, has been very supportive, contributing to her preparations by grooming her for the international pageant as well as by presenting her with a cheque for P40 000, which will go into the production of her profile.

Sumaiya can be deemed to be the luckiest young woman to wear this local crown because unlike her predecessors everything is in order well ahead of the big night. Her wardrobe and all that she will need during her stay in South Africa has been sorted.

Designing her final evening dress for the pageant is local designer Lesedi Matlapeng. Representatives from Miss Botswana and 63 Entertainers are expected to join her in South Africa before the grand finale.