On September 5, Joheirry Mola of the Dominican Republic was crowned Miss World 2026. The grand finale of the 75th anniversary edition of the beauty pageant was held in Nha Trang, Vietnam, where women from around the world travelled to compete for the international title.
Joheirry Mola, who won the title for her home country, is a Dominican educator, journalist, community advocate, communicator and professional model. The Miss World crown has a new home, and this time it is heading to the Dominican Republic. She teaches Literature and Social Studies in English, inspiring critical thinking and holistic development. Moreover, as a correspondent for Univision New York’s Ventana a Quisqueya, Joheirry highlights Dominican culture, social issues, and community stories. A Goya Gives Ambassador and professional model, she is driven by human connection, empathy, and the values instilled by her deeply united family.
She has a degree in Business Management and Administration from Universidad Iberoamericana, according to the Miss World Organisation. The Miss World Organisation revealed that her personal motto is: “The greatest gift you can offer is the opportunity that you once needed yourself in order to grow, move forward, and transform your life.” She is the founder and president of Voices of Tomorrow, which promotes English education for children and youth in vulnerable communities.
A historic celebration for the country indeed. The evening also celebrated the beauty pageant’s 75th anniversary. From every moment you gave us to every cheer you brought home — thank you for representing us so beautifully. India is proud of you, always. The host organisation focused on their initiative, Beauty With a Purpose, for the pageant. As part of the initiative, contestants presented projects addressing issues within their communities. For her project, MAATI, Nikita worked with tribal women and children on areas including education, healthcare, nutrition, hygiene, clean drinking water, and economic opportunities.
Joheirry’s victory marks the second Miss World crown for the Dominican Republic in 44 years, according to the Miss World Organisation. Before Joheirry, Mariasela Álvarez became the first Dominican woman to win the title in 1982. The Miss World 2026 grand finale took place by the sea in the heart of Nha Trang, inside an open-air structure extended for more than 110 meters across the city’s iconic 2 April Square. Elisabeth Reynes of Spain was the first runner-up in the competition, and Taanusiya Chetty of Malaysia was the second runner-up While Joheirry Mola won the Miss World title after competing against 111 contestants from around the world.
Thailand’s Opal Suchata Chuangsri, who made history last year as the first woman from her country to win the Miss World title, crowned Joheirry as her successor last night. Earlier reporting noted: “Nikita, you carried India with grace, conviction and heart on one of the world’s biggest stages. Earlier reporting noted: Nikita’s Miss World journey extended beyond the usual ramp walks associated with a beauty pageant.
