Green queen heads to Asia

This year’s international Miss Earth theme is based on eco-tourism. Saunders said she was ready to share South Africa’s stand and objectives pertaining to sustainable tourism with her fellow delegates. She explained that the goal of eco-tourism is to create an experience that makes a significant commitment to the culture and economies of local communities and thus provides a positive contribution to the conservation of South Africa’s biodiversity.

Saunders, a BA comms graduate from the North West province, will represent South Africa among 100 delegates from across the world at the Miss World International competition to be held in the Phillipines during November. She will spend three weeks travelling around the Phillipines visiting schools and communities, promoting environmental campaigns and meeting dignitaries and environmental bodies across the country.

“We have no doubt that Ilze will do us proud, she has a wonderful… personality and is ready to embrace the experience,” said Miss Earth South Africa executive director and South Africa’s first-ever Miss Earth, Catherine Constantinides. Saunders’ endeavour to bring home the title of Miss Earth International will be aided by her incredible team of designers who have outfitted her in the most original, eco-friendly and beautiful garments for the competition.

Saunders’ national costume has been designed by Sonwabile Ndamase of Vukani Range Creations. Ndamase’s label was made famous by their Madiba shirts, worn by the late Nelson Mandela. Saunders will also showcase an eco-dress made from responsibly sourced, sustainable, upcycled materials. The dress was created by Louis Designs and sponsored by Zaitoon Rabaney of the Botanical Society of South Africa. Completing her array of designs is a glittering evening dress by Jose de Canha and swimwear by Dax Martin.