MISS WORLD BAHAMAS 2008 - Tinnyse Johnson

Miss World Bahamas 2008 is truly an island girl at heart. "I love the island way of life – fishing, crabbing, conching, and especially making tamarind sauce," she says. She also often makes time to enjoy the beautiful beaches of The Bahamas. In her spare time, she enjoys swimming, listening to music, writing inspirational messages, and taking in a good movie – solo. Tinnyse is currently enrolled in the College of the Bahamas where she is pursuing a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration. She hopes to put that education to good use by one day owning a conglomerate of businesses internationally. She also wants to make her mark on the international inspirational speaking circuit. In 58 years of Miss World history, The Bahamas has had one semifinalist in the planet's most prestigious pageant, back in 1992. Many believe Tinnyse has a great shot at breaking the odds and ending this long drought for her country. Meet Miss Bahamas 2008, and see if you agree...

Describe yourself in one or two sentences.

I am optimistic and open to new ideas and I embrace change for the better. I am a young woman who is always seeking ways to enhance her beauty from within, with the view that outer beauty will naturally follow. I am passionate about helping others - particularly at-risk young women - to make healthier lifestyle choices as they travel along the path of life.

 
Which three songs must be in your I-Pod?

- Lee Anne Womack's I hope you dance
- Mariah Carey's My all
- Shania Twain's I feel like a woman.

Tell us about your “Beauty With a Purpose” Project.

My beauty with a purpose project is all about empowerment – it is geared toward encouraging the mentoring of at risk young women while raising money for their college education. I have contacted business and professional women throughout the Bahamas and have asked them to "adopt" a little sister for a day, and spend that day mentoring her. We are hoping that these women enjoy the experience of helping the young ladies build self esteem and a greater sense of self-worth to the point where they will want to continue the relationship. The day culminates with a fashion/concert called Girls Night Out. Each woman is asked to make a donation toward a Scholarship Endowment Fund at the College of the Bahamas in the name of her little sister. A panel from the College then chooses a winner who will receive a fully paid, four year academic scholarship. Our hope is to raise sufficient funds so that the gift will keep on giving year after year. The ultimate goal is to establish positive role models in the lives of young women who are in need of direction to get them on the right track towards a better way of life.

What has been your most memorable rainy day?

I was scheduled to attend a major event, so I made an appointment at the Labelle's beauty salon to have my natural curly hair blown out so that I would have that bouncy straight look. Although I arrived 15 minutes prior to my scheduled appointment, I discovered that the free parking lot was full, and I certainly couldn't afford the $60 valet parking fee! So I opted for a parking space even further away from the salon. Everything was going as planned... my hair looked fabulous as I left the salon. And wouldn't you know it, about half way to my car, down came the rain! I got drenched, and because of time constraints (and limited funds), I couldn't go back to the salon to redo my hair. So I ended up going to the function with the tightest curls ever! (she laughes) I walked in the room as if this was my newest fashion statement! Not sure I pulled it off, but that is certainly a rainy day I will never forget!

If you were invited to participate in the next NY Fashion Week, which fashion designer you would like to dress you?

Ann Taylor - everything she designs suits my style & personality - so on the runway I can just be myself!

Tell us about the nightlife in your hometown.

There are several nightclubs to choose from if that's your sort of thing. However, if you want more of a real Bahamian experience, an evening at the "fish fry" would be perfect. It's a very casual atmosphere with a large variety of "down home" restaurants that offer delicious Bahamian dishes and the best fruit daiquiris in the world! But the best part of it is that on the right night, your evening can end with a Junkanoo rush out, or some other live indigenous entertainment. It's also the site of many cultural and musical festivals.

What has been your weirdest dream? Describe it.

It was actually just a few nights ago! I dreamt I was walking across a room filled with scorpions, snakes, spiders and centipedes. At first I was terrified but halfway to the other side, I gained the courage and assurance that I would be okay. So I remained calm and to my amazement I arrived on the other side of the room unharmed. I awoke shortly after and quickly checked my bed to make sure it was only a dream!

Where will the Miss World judges score you highest: interview, swimsuit or gown presentation?

I would say interview. I've been working really hard on my physique and think I'm to the point where I can do very well in the beach beauty competition, but my body isn't flawless. I do hope to present my gown well, however there is no guarantee that my gown will be the best of the night! Besides, both beach beauty and evening gown are really subjective. However, in my interview I hope to effectively communicate my passion for and compassion towards people in need, and my genuine desire to make a positive contribution to the world.

What message you would like to send to the other Miss World contestants?

Hi girls! I am so excited to meet all of you and I hope when time permits we can get to know each other and learn more about our many cultures. I love to cook, so please come prepared to give me some of your native recipes. That way, I will always have a taste of your culture with me, long after Miss World is done. See you soon!

Special thanks to Miss Bahamas World, Michelle and Héctor J. Colón González

Visit Miss Bahamas World's Official Site