MISS Universe Tanzania 2009 Illuminata James was due in Chengdu, China yesterday for this year's Miss International finale.
Illuminata is among 71 beauties from various countries across the world lined up for the pageant set for November 28.
The beauty queen left for China on Wednesday, bristling with confidence and eager to make her presence felt in the pageant.
Compass Communications director Maria Sarungi said yesterday that Illuminata secured a ticket for the China event after winning the Miss Universe title a few months ago.
“Illuminata faired impressively in this year's Miss Universe, and she really deserves to compete in the event of Miss International beauty contest's magnitude,” said Maria.
“I am optimistic she will win something for her and her country in the China pageant because she has what it takes to do so,” she added.
Maria assured modeling fans that Illuminata underwent adequate preparations before heading to China.
Miss International beauty contest, one of four major beauty pageants in the world, was launched in 1967.