The world has a new queen! Joheirry Mola Dominguez of the Dominican Republic won Miss World 2026 in Vietnam on Saturday, September 5.
The 24-year-old teacher, journalist and model beat 110 contestants from around the world. She succeeds Thailand’s Opal Suchata Chuangsri.
Her victory also gives the Dominican Republic its second Miss World crown. The country first won the title in 1982.
Mariasela Alvarez became the first Dominican delegate to win the crown 44 years ago.
The top 6
The final moments of the Miss World 2026 finale took place at April 2 Square in Nha Trang.
Six contestants reached the final stage. Each represented a country with pride.
Dominguez eventually took the crown. Elisabeth Reynés Alabern of Spain finished as the first runner-up.
Malaysia’s Taanusiya Chetty claimed second runner-up. She also won the Beauty with a Purpose Award.
Le Nguyen Bao Ngoc of Vietnam also reached the final round. So did Romanda Hombir of South Africa.
Snit Habteab Tewoldemedhin of Eritrea completed the final six. She also won the People’s Choice Award.
This year’s competition also marked an important milestone. The Miss World pageant celebrated its 75th anniversary.
The winning answer
Dominguez secured the title during the seaside coronation. Her answer focused on the meaning of “beauty with a purpose.”
The judges asked her about the goals she had supported in her country.
They also asked how she would expand those efforts as Miss World.
Dominguez highlighted her work with children in vulnerable communities.
“My beauty with a purpose is to take English programmes to kids in vulnerable communities because I believe that when they know this language, the opportunities, the doors that can open in their lives, it’s huge, big doors,” she answered.
She then explained how English can help young people express themselves.
“Because I was talking to the girls and telling them that, thanks to that tool, we are here,” she continued.
Dominguez also described education as a lifelong tool for children.
“We have the tool to express our feelings, to express our purpose,” she said.
She added that she would always carry that mission with her.
For Dominguez, English education can create new opportunities. It can also help children build confidence and communicate globally.
In classroom, on camera
Dominguez has already built a career around education and media.
The young educator comes from Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic. She leads the Voices of Tomorrow initiative.
The project brings English education to children in vulnerable communities.
It also aims to give Dominican youth better access to global opportunities.
Dominguez teaches Literature and Social Studies in English. Through her work, she encourages critical thinking and personal development.
However, education is not her only career.
Dominguez also works in front of the camera. She serves as a correspondent for Univision New York’s Ventana a Quisqueya.
Her reporting focuses on social issues and culture. She also covers stories linked to the Dominican entertainment industry.
Dominguez has also worked as a professional model. Her career includes collaborations with local and international brands.
She currently serves as an ambassador for Goya Gives. The initiative supports communities through several programs.
These include food security, disaster relief and education.
Her mix of education, journalism and modelling helped shape her Miss World journey.
Now, Dominguez begins her reign as Miss World 2026. She will represent the Dominican Republic on the international stage.
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