Jason Harris
Photo Credit: Bob Reyes
On the vibrant night of February 24th, the Orion Function Center in Campsie, NSW, transformed into a kaleidoscope of colour, talent, and celebration as Flagcom & Friends orchestrated another dazzling edition of The Miss Mardi Gras International Queen 2024 pageant. Now in its 14th year, this glittering event not only celebrated beauty and talent but also served as a powerful platform to raise awareness about crucial issues facing the LGBTQI+ community.
The evening kicked off with electrifying performances by local artists, setting the stage for an unforgettable night. The vibrant energy of the performers resonated with the audience, creating an atmosphere of excitement and anticipation.
A major highlight of the night was the showcase of nine exceptional candidates from the Asia-Pacific region. Representing countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, and various states in Australia, these contestants brought their unique flair and charisma to the stage. The finalists engaged in a spirited competition across three segments, including evening gown, swimsuit, and national costume, each highlighting their individual style and cultural pride. The evening also featured a dynamic question-and-answer session, adding an element of intellect to the festivities.
The atmosphere crackled with energy as the audience reveled in the stunning performances of the contestants. Adding another layer of glamour to the night, local artists took the stage, contributing to the overall entertainment quotient and creating an unforgettable experience for all in attendance.
In a brilliant fusion of fashion and culture, Mr. Ginoo took center stage to unveil his latest collection. The House of Filipino Designers, known as Mr. Gino-o, presented a contemporary take on the Barong Tagalog, preserving its cultural essence while making it trendy and relevant for the international market. Albert Prias, the creative mind behind the collection, succeeded in promoting Philippine products and materials on a global stage.
Another highlight of the night was the unveiling of the latest issue of InLife magazine, a testament to the inclusive spirit of the event. Showcasing beauty queens and kings from across Australia, the magazine became a powerful medium to amplify the voices and stories of the LGBTQI+ community.
As the night reached its pinnacle, the crowning moments were nothing short of magical. Melanie Ngo from Vietnam was crowned as the Ms Mardi Gras Rainbow Princess, while Nur Sajat received the prestigious title of Ms Mardi Gras Pink Triangle Princess. The grand finale was the crowning of Hershey Hernandez, representing Cavite in the Philippines, as the Ms. Mardi Gras International Queen 2024.
Heartfelt congratulations go out to Albert Prias, Charles Chan, and the entire Flagcom team for orchestrating yet another successful event that seamlessly combined entertainment with advocacy. For 14 consecutive years, they have brought together a celebration that not only entertains but also advocates for inclusivity and equality. StarCentral Magazine is proud to have played a role in this spectacular event, underscoring the significance of gatherings that empower and celebrate the LGBTQI+ community. The Miss Mardi Gras International Queen 2024 pageant was not just a competition; it was a testament to the power of unity and the beauty of diversity.
Jason Harris
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