Raveena Mangal to represent Guyana at Miss Model of Tourism World 2021
As an avid reader, I understand how books can be eye-openers, boost creativity and create confidence…, so I wanted to create a literacy initiative for the donation of books which would be set up in schools, this would teach children to not only value books (as they would have to be returned in good conditions) but also nurture a love for reading. The second part of my project was also inspired by interactions with indigenous youths and by my own experiences. I’ve heard from many young indigenous people that transitioning to life on the coast can be challenging, as well as a culture shock. In my own experiences of living as an independent young woman, there were several changes and lessons I had to learn the hard way as well. If only there was a tangible guide, I thought, so I had an epiphany and thought a guide book which is specific to the challenges young independent Guyanese women may face would be just what the doctor ordered.”
Recently, the dancer contributed to a book which is a collection of short stories by Guyanese writer Tiffany Manbodh titled Blooming through Adversity that is expected to be out in June this year. Inspired by this, she realized she could accomplish her book through a collaborative effort. She plans to reach out to outstanding Guyanese women who are experts and role models in their own fields to share
their insights, experiences and tips on particular topics. These will cover areas such as how to start a business, appropriate dress for various occasions, etiquette, self-defence techniques, how to build selfconfidence,
and so on. To get a bit more creative and fun, she plans to work with an illustrator.
Among her many travel experiences, Raveena also visited Trinidad, Barbados and Jamaica. Her trip to Barbados is her most memorable to date and an extra special one as she went with her mother and sisters which they dubbed a girls’ trip. It served to strengthen the bond they share and provided the adventure to explore and luxuriate.
A dancer for eight years, Raveena is a member of the Jewan ka Nritya Dance group. It is no surprise therefore that she will be doing a dance for the talent category. Paul Charles, who will be representing Guyana at the same pageant in the Mr category and who is also a seasoned dancer is currently working along with Raveena as she prepares. In addition, the dancer is being trained by personal trainer, Yannick Grimes.
While dancing is a passion, it is not the only one.
Raveena also likes travelling, exploring and eating. In her quiet moments, she likes to read and paint. However, her limited free time is often spent playing with her niece, nephew, and the children on her block. They spend time cooking, painting and sometimes hanging out at the seawall.
Considered someone who is adventurous, empathetic, and phenomenal, this is what the former St Stanislaus student had to say when asked what she wishes her legacy to be. “To borrow words from the great Maya Angelou, ‘My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humour, and some style.’ Whether I have left a legacy or not is not of particular importance to me, the most important thing would be to be kind and to genuinely help others in any way I can, to know that I have done all I could to create a better world and to be happy in my choices.”