(ABIDJAN, COTE D’IVOIRE) — Made up naturally, with her hair tightly pulled back into a simple ponytail and donning a pin of the Golden Arrowhead– the very beautiful Miss Guyana World 2012 Arti Cameron, hosted by fellow Guyanese Mr. Ronald (Rocky) Hall, stepped into the United Nations Office in Cote d’Ivoire (ONUCI).
During her visit on Monday 19th January 2012 at the UN office located in Sebreko Atchecoube, Ms. Cameron took the opportunity to meet briefly with several members of the UN staff and even promoted her country during an interview on ONUCI FM, which broadcasts nationwide here in Cote d’Ivoire. The reigning Miss Guyana World explained, “Guyana is geographically South American but culturally Caribbean with a diverse population.”
The reigning queen also mentioned that she has enjoyed exploring the Ivorian culture and considers the cuisine extraordinary and delicious.
Ms. Cameron was pleasantly surprised by some striking similarities between Ivorian and Guyanese urban atmosphere, weather and even cuisine. She was particularly pleased to be able to enjoy a similar variety of fruits and vegetables to those available in her homeland. It was also noted that both countries prepare “Fufu” in the same way. Ms. Cameron pointed out in the national radio interview that the diversity and hospitality of the Ivorians also reminded her of her own nation.
During the interview, the Guyanese representative to Miss World 2012 urged young people– especially young women– living in a nation which was ravaged by war in 2011, to dream big and to devote themselves to working hard to overcome their fears in order to accomplish their dreams.
In addition to visiting the UN offices in Abidjan, the pre-med student also displayed a compassionate side by visiting the health center of the ONUCI which provided medical assistance to the general population during the crisis in Ivory Coast in 2011.
She then met with members of a small Guyanese community based in the francophone nation who welcomed her with open arms.
Ms. Cameron stated that she finds Cote d’Ivoire intriguing and hopes to learn more about the rich traditions that make up this fascinating culture.
“I am really enjoying my visit to Cote d’Ivoire; I’m really happy for the opportunity to indulge in such a dynamic and multifaceted culture. I also get a chance to tell people about where I am from and share a bit of Guyanese culture with them, too,” said the Guyanese national beauty ambassador.
As part of the third phase of her reign aimed at spotlighting Guyana and empowering others, Ms. Cameron is also set to be involved with an upcoming fashion event in March organized by New York based African designer All Flo of All Flo Couture to raise funds for the LesARTS Foundation. The LesARTS Foundation supports orphans and children’s education in Lesotho, Southern Africa. Ms. Cameron also supports the Ruimveldt Children’s Aid Centre in Guyana which provides psychosocial support to children and Now AfriCAN which professionally and socially empowers African youth living in post conflict zones.
