Published: 12:41 AM, 07 September 2026
Dominican Republic's Joheirry Mola crowned Miss World 2026
Joheirry Mola of the Dominican Republic was crowned Miss World 2026 at the grand finale in Nha Trang, Vietnam, on Saturday, with Elisabeth Reynés of Spain and Taanusiya Chetty of Malaysia named first and second runners-up respectively.
The 24-year-old educator, journalist and community advocate received the crown from Thailand's Opal Suchata Chuangsri, who won the 72nd Miss World title in 2025.
Mola's victory marked the Dominican Republic's second Miss World title, 44 years after Mariasela Álvarez became the country's first winner in 1982.
According to a report of the Miss World website, Mola is a graduate in business management and administration from Universidad Iberoamericana. She teaches literature and social studies in English and founded Voices of Tomorrow, an initiative that promotes access to English-language education for children and young people in vulnerable communities.
Mola advanced to the final six after winning the Top Model challenge for the Americas and Caribbean region.
In the final round, she was asked about her work through Voices of Tomorrow and how she would develop it as Miss World. She said she wanted to expand English-language education for children and young people in vulnerable communities, describing language skills as a means of improving access to education and opportunities.
The competition began with 111 contestants, with 40 advancing to the quarterfinals and 20 to the next round. The top 12 were then selected before six finalists were chosen, representing the four regions, Beauty With a Purpose and People's Choice.
The month-long competition began on August 9 and included challenge events, interviews, fashion shows, cultural programmes and charitable activities across Vietnam.
The 2026 pageant was the first Miss World competition hosted by Vietnam and coincided with the organisation's 75th anniversary.
