(Seychelles News Agency) - Participating in the Miss Seychelles Another World 2016 pageant is turning out to be a great way for a shy person to develop her personality and build self-confidence.

Kimberley Anacoura says family members were the ones who encouraged her to take part in the beauty contest.

“It’s the journey of a lifetime, although challenging at times, but with the help of family members and the Seychelles Tourism Board, I will make it,” Anacoura told SNA adding that she is enjoying every bit of the journey.

The 18-year-old who dreams of becoming a flight attendant and fly around the world is currently in her last year studying reception operations and services at the Seychelles Tourism Academy.

A resident of Port Glaud, on the western side of the Seychelles main island, Mahé, Anacoura says she enjoys spending time at home in the company of her family.

As is the case for all Miss Seychelles contestants, she is also actively involved in developing a community fulfillment project titled ‘bringing joy to the disabled child through charity.’

Through her beauty with a purpose project – a major component of the pageant and a component of the Miss World Pageant, which the winner gets to participate in -- she is seeking to attract sponsorship for the Seychelles’ school for disabled children.

Anacoura explained to SNA that she is targeting sponsorship for educational materials like tablets for those who are unable to use a pen. She says visits to the school have showed her that such technology is lacking.

A family that lives close to Anacoura has two children with disabilities, inspiring her to take up the cause.

“Talking to them quite often, I have grown to love them and want to make a difference in their lives,” said Anacoura, adding that the project will allow her to do just that.

With barely 10 days to go until pageant night, Anacoura says the excitement is already starting to build.

“I believe I will make it to the top five,” she told SNA.

Editor’s Note: Twelve contestants are taking part in the 2016 Miss Seychelles Another World pageant. The crowning ceremony will take place on Saturday May 28. SNA is writing feature stories on each participant in the order they appear as contestants up to the crowning night.