Monique Smith, a native of St. Kitts and Nevis, is set to represent her nation at the Miss International World pageant. Based in Florida, Smith is known for her work as a community advocate, educator, and artist. The international competition is scheduled to take place from September 17 to 21, 2026, at the Bahia Mar Fort Lauderdale Beach Hotel.
Pageant Schedule and Events
The five-day pageant will feature a variety of activities designed to showcase the contestants’ talents and personalities. The opening event, the Parade of Costumes, is slated for Friday. The main competition, culminating in the Dinner Show & Crowning, will be held on Sunday, September 20, 2026. The event will be hosted by Roman Cody Foster, Jennifer Rosario, and Dr. Akshata Prabu.
Monique Smith’s Journey and Advocacy
Smith’s participation in the Miss International World pageant carries a significant personal message. She is a non-speaking individual who primarily communicates through Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices and American Sign Language (ASL). Smith views her entry into the pageant as a personal challenge and an opportunity to demonstrate that individuals who communicate differently possess powerful voices. She aims to inspire others by showing that no obstacle should limit one’s aspirations and to celebrate her personal journey.
Her journey has been marked by significant health challenges. In 2018, Smith was diagnosed with Thyroid Cancer and subsequently underwent surgery. The treatment resulted in bilateral vocal cord paralysis, which affects her ability to speak, breathe, and swallow. Reflecting on this period, Smith described it as challenging but emphasized her determination not to let her illness define her.
Resilience and Inspiring Others
Smith shared her perspective on overcoming adversity: “My experience taught me resilience, gratitude, and the importance of advocating for your health. Today, I use my story to encourage others to stay hopeful, get checked, and never give up.” This philosophy underpins her participation in the pageant, as she seeks to motivate others facing their own struggles.
Miss International World: A Platform for Global Representation
The Miss International World pageant serves as a significant platform for women from around the globe to share their stories, advocate for causes, and represent their respective countries on an international stage. The event typically includes segments such as national costume, evening gown, and interview, allowing judges to assess contestants on beauty, poise, intelligence, and their ability to connect with a global audience.
Smith’s unique communication style, utilizing AAC and ASL, is expected to bring a distinct and powerful dimension to her participation. Her presence highlights the pageant’s potential to embrace diversity and showcase the varied ways individuals can express themselves and connect with the world. Her advocacy for health and resilience resonates with the pageant’s broader goals of promoting positive influence and personal growth among its contestants.
Community Advocate and Artist
Beyond her personal advocacy, Monique Smith is actively involved in her community. As an educator, she works to empower others through knowledge and understanding. Her role as a community advocate involves championing causes that promote inclusivity and support for individuals with disabilities. Furthermore, her identity as an artist reflects a creative spirit and a unique perspective on the world, which she likely brings to her platform and her participation in the pageant.
Looking Ahead
Monique Smith’s representation of St. Kitts and Nevis at the Miss International World pageant is a moment of national pride. Her journey from overcoming cancer to advocating for others, while preparing to compete on an international stage, is a testament to her strength and determination. The pageant’s focus on global understanding and personal empowerment provides an ideal venue for Smith to share her inspiring message and advocate for a more inclusive world.
