Sunday 11 August 2013

Top Pageant Contender Ms Dannyele Teneel Leslie Speaks To The Fashion Police In London Town

Sexy......Talented.....Fiercelicious Ms Dannyele Teneel Leslie
Please, tell us who you are and what you do for those not familiar with you?
I am, Dannyele Teneel Leslie a 24 year old aspiring diplomat. Who holds an Associate Degree in Spanish and Law as well as a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and Law.  As a lover of pageantry, I have earned the titles of Miss Barbados World 2006 1st Runner up, and have been awarded the opportunities of representing my island paradise Barbados as Miss Holetown 2009 in the Miss Jaycees Caribbean Queen 2009 placing 1strunner up, Miss Caribbean World 2010 placing 1st runner up, Miss Caribbean Culture 2011 placing 3rd Runner up and the most recent Miss Carnival 2013.

2)      Which 2 words best describe you as a person?
I am ambitious in that I believe opportunity knocks but once whether it comes with its value stamped on it or whether it comes in disguise.
I am intelligent.  Intelligent enough to know that no one person knows or has the answers to all life’s queries, it is therefore important to listen and observe.

3)      Describe your Fashion sense?
I believe there is a time and place for everything. When it comes to fashion once the attire is tasteful, comfortable, flattering on my petite frame and compliments my vibrant personality I’ll wear it and wear it with confidence!

4)      Do you think you are a true representation of today's woman if yes/no why?
The definition of today’s woman may generate many definitions. I prefer to define myself as a strong woman who is assertive in her stance so as to reach her goals and ultimately secure success.

5)      Tell us all about your pageant experience to this very day?
My pageant career has been nothing short of phenomenal with a capital ‘P’. What started off as a test of will has turned into a profound love. It has been an avenue of exploration, where I was not only able to develop my performing talent and interpersonal skills but I was able to share them with the many individuals I came into contact with. Most importantly it has allowed me to represent my country and given me the much desired practice for my chosen field of work. Honestly, nothing feels better than to announce your country to hundreds of people. It is an honour.

6)      What are 4 tips you live by when entering a pageant?
When I’m in pageant mode I treat it like a sport; it is a sport. Be a good Sportswoman; only one can win the race or game, likewise in pageantry only one can win the crown or title, therefore I respect and appreciate that. Be disciplined, whether physical or mental. Practice technique; in the same way a cricketer postures himself for his 6 runs, so too must the beauty queen, whether it a perfect T stance or winning smile, ensuring excellent execution is key. Finally, BE YOURSELF!! Staying true to self is pivotal!

7)      Describe what true beauty is?
True beauty comes with a purpose. One that strives to build a legacy that others may follow well beyond the measured years of physical beauty.

8)      What do you love doing when you’re not busy?
I love to watch a good movie or series, relax on the beach or sometimes I just get lost in some of my favorite YouTube channels.

9)      If you had the power to change the pageant world what would you change and why?
I would like to upgrade the level of our shows, especially here in the Caribbean. I would like to see us strive to reach and surpass that of our international counterparts. From the setting of the stages, to the routines selected, to the designs displayed. Also I believe it is high time for transparency as far as judging is concerned. In this technological age in which we live, there is no reason why scores shouldn’t be electronically posted for audience/public viewing during or after a show. Not only would it minimize the “after pageant guessing game” but it would allow delegates to know where they went wrong and so better themselves.

10)   What would you say are your best assets?
My personality, my smile and my skin!
               
11)   What are 4 things some men do that make you mad?
Discredit pageantry as something easy or useless.
Lie, (this goes for men or women).
Refuse to admit that a woman’s’ role in the society is no longer limited to being at home and dependent.
Men who think they are less of a man if they pamper themselves once and a while. It’s just a pedicure!

12)   Where do you see yourself in 7 years’ time?
My studies would have been completed, married with a child and the home of my dreams and most definitely helping out on the local pageant scene.

13)   If you’re to judge a pageant what makes a winner in your eyes?
Unless your talent is acting, a winner is someone who does not put on a face on stage, someone who is sincere (a trait that is easily spotted) and comfortable showcasing the true them, the best version of themselves. It is all well and good to have someone to wear a crown, anybody can do that. The true test is how flawlessly that title meshes with the individual’s actual and overall character.

14)   If you were to transform into any fruit which fruit would it be and why?
A mango! (Laughing) not only does it smell good and taste great but it is used in so many creative a useful ways!

15)   If you were to walk the red carpet which designer would you wear and why?
Zuhair Murad, I am simply in love with his use of embroidered fabrics.

16)   What do you think of the Fashion Police News Blog?
I think it is absolutely fabulous! Not only is it headed by the one and only Mr. Fierce! But he has created a portal for individuals like myself, to share their experiences, views and lives with an ever growing worldwide audience! That’s not something you get to do everyday!

17)   What do you think of men who teach women to walk?
The same thing I think about women who teach women how to walk. They are great!! The reality is some of the best hairstylists are MEN, most of the best designers are MEN, and no doubt most of the best catwalk trainers are MEN.

18)   If the Fashion Police was to have dinner at your home what dish would you prepare them?
My national dish, Cou Cou and Flying Fish, which is steamed cornmeal with okra and steamed flying fish! It’s the best! With a tall, cool glass of Mauby. It would be a shame if I didn’t let you have it.

19)   Who are your 4 best friends you would ride and die for?
I don’t believe in ‘riding and dying’. I however hold my friends dear to heart. When it comes to my mother, I would give my last breath.

20)   Which music would have you running to the dance floor to shake your booty?
As a Caribbean girl I love Soca!! Machel Montano really gets me going!!

21)   What advice do you have for others looking to walk into your footsteps?
That’s just it, never walk in anyone’s footsteps. Borrow from life’s experiences, take risks, make mistakes and learn from them. Charter your own path, to unlocking your true potential. Succeed.

22)   What is one thing you have learned from all these pageants?
Often times, great, positive, life changing opportunities present themselves to us, sometimes masked as hard work which unfortunately may be a deterrent to some. I have learnt to embrace these opportunities, despite how insurmountable they may seem, reassured in the fact that my true potential will not only be revealed but tested and I would have emerged a greater individual for having accepted the challenge.


23)   If the fashion Police was to be a fly on your bedroom wall what would they be shocked to see?
How much of a neat freak I really am, I mean my wardrobe is colour coded.

24)   Any last words for our many blog readers worldwide?
There’s only one YOU! BE GREAT AT BEING THAT!