International Desk: Joheirry Mola Dominguez of the Dominican Republic has been crowned Miss World 2026, becoming the 73rd winner of the prestigious international beauty pageant. The 24-year-old educator, journalist, model and community advocate claimed the crown during the grand finale of the Miss World Festival on September 5 in Nha Trang, Vietnam. She emerged victorious from a field of 111 national representatives at a spectacular seaside final held at 2 April Square.
Mola received the Miss World crown from Thailand’s Opal Suchata Chuangsri, who won the title in 2025. Spain’s Elisabeth Reynés was named first runner-up, while Malaysia’s Taanusiya Chetty finished as second runner-up.
From educator to Miss World
Mola holds a degree in Business Management and Administration from Universidad Iberoamericana. She works as a Literature and Social Studies teacher, news correspondent and professional model.
She is also the founder and president of Voices of Tomorrow, an initiative focused on expanding access to English-language education for children and young people in vulnerable communities in the Dominican Republic.
Her social-impact work played a major role in her Miss World journey. During the final, Mola spoke about using English education to help children express themselves, pursue educational opportunities and build a better future.
Strong performance throughout the competition
Mola’s success was not limited to the final night. She secured a place in the Top 40 after winning the Top Model challenge for the Americas and Caribbean region. She subsequently advanced through the Top 20, Top 12 and Top 6, ultimately winning the Miss World crown.
The final six contestants represented South Africa, the Dominican Republic, Vietnam, Spain, Malaysia and Eritrea. Mola represented the Americas and Caribbean region.
Second Miss World crown for Dominican Republic
Mola’s victory is historic for the Dominican Republic. She becomes only the second woman from the country to win the Miss World title, ending a 44-year wait since Mariasela Álvarez won the country’s first Miss World crown in 1982. Her victory brought celebrations across the Dominican Republic, with national leaders and public figures congratulating her on the historic achievement.
The 2026 competition marked the 75th anniversary of Miss World and was held in Vietnam for the first time. The four-week festival brought together 111 national ambassadors for a series of challenges, cultural activities and social-impact initiatives before the final crown was awarded in Nha Trang.
As the new Miss World, Joheirry Mola will now represent the organization internationally while continuing its Beauty With a Purpose mission and her own work supporting education and young people.
