What began as a dream rooted in determination and unwavering persistence culminated in victory for 22-year-old Chandini Baljor, who was crowned Miss Universe Guyana 2025 at a glittering ceremony on Saturday night at the Marriott Hotel. With this win, Baljor secures her place to represent Guyana at the Miss Universe pageant this November in Thailand.
The coronation was nothing short of spectacular. The stage’s sleek, modern design allowed each contestant to command attention with grace and poise, while an intimate but lively audience filled the venue with cheers and anticipation. When Baljor’s name was announced, the room erupted in celebration, marking the triumphant end of her two-year journey to the crown.
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This was not her first attempt at the title. In 2022, Baljor competed but fell short of winning. Rather than walking away, she returned with renewed focus and stronger resolve. Speaking with The Waterfalls after her victory, she said through tears of joy:
“I am extremely honored and excited to finally own this title. Hard work always pays off.”
Her persistence extends beyond the runway. Baljor is currently a fourth-year medical student at the University of Guyana, a goal she achieved after applying three times before finally being accepted. “If I could fight that hard to get into medical school, I knew I could fight just as hard to win this crown,” she explained proudly.
Baljor described her preparation as rigorous and demanding. For the past two months, her days began at 5 a.m. with gym training, followed by hospital duties from 8 to 12, classes, exams, and modeling jobs in the afternoons. In the evenings, she dedicated time to her pageant preparation before ending each day in prayer. “It was exhausting, but I trusted myself and put in the work,” she said.
The young queen also shared her excitement about the opportunity to compete internationally:
“This will be the second time I’m traveling for a pageant, and I’m extremely excited. Pageants allow you to experience new cultures, meet different people, and grow as an individual. I cannot wait to represent Guyana in Thailand.”
Her victory did not come without challenges. Baljor admitted struggling at first with her stage walk and the stress of balancing her medical studies with pageant duties. Yet, resilience kept her grounded. “Resilience is the one quality that got me to where I am today. To young girls out there: don’t let criticism shake you. With resilience, any goal is attainable.”
Among the nine registered contestants, eight made it to the final competition. Contestant #2, Nichola Munroe, withdrew due to personal reasons. The other finalists were Khadeshia Walker (#3), Keefia Ebony Younge (#4), Malika Allicock (#5), Jemima Wilson (#6), Nikita Seepaul (#7), Mallissa Dennis (#8), and Makeda Braithwaite (#9).
The runners-up also shone brightly. First runner-up, Malika Allicock, said her debut pageant experience was life-changing:
“I’m overwhelmed with joy. I know everyone wants the crown, but I truly believe Chandini is very deserving. This journey helped me grow, and maybe I’ll enter another one,” she laughed.
Allicock’s motivation came from a desire to inspire confidence in others while raising awareness for her advocacy platform, Safe Roads Guyana. “I wasn’t always bold, but now I want to show young women that you can step out of your comfort zone, dream big, and achieve more.” She thanked her supporters, adding, “My friends, family, and coaches have been my rock through this journey.”
Second runner-up, Khadesia Walker, brought years of pageant experience, having competed in Miss America and Miss Connecticut USA since childhood. For Walker, the Miss Universe Guyana stage was both a challenge and a new opportunity. “Even after years in pageantry, rejection still happens. But you must never give up. If it’s not your time, it means God has another plan.”
The evening’s panel of judges included urban and rural planner Elsie Harry, pageant consultant Harry Narine Nawbatt, and former contestant Imarah Radix. They faced the difficult task of selecting a winner from a group of talented young women, but ultimately agreed that Baljor embodied the poise, resilience, and vision of a Miss Universe Guyana.
As she took her final walk in a dazzling pink gown, radiating confidence and grace, Baljor’s triumph was more than just a crown—it was proof that persistence, hard work, and faith can transform dreams into reality. With her eyes now set on the international stage, Chandini Baljor is ready to represent Guyana with pride and resilience in Thailand.
