As a Policy Associate for the Global Network, my days are usually filled with politicians, suits, memos and briefings–hardly the stuff of glitz and glamour. So when I was tasked Wednesday with training a handful of Miss Universe Contestants on neglected tropical diseases, I took the train up to New York City with great curiosity and admitted skepticism. Coming from the world of DC realpolitik, I had my doubts that the Misses could become articulate Global Network spokeswomen ahead of our cocktail reception less than 12 hours later.
Thankfully, the women shattered my cynicism and quickly engaged enthusiastically in learning about these diseases, their treatments, and how they could personally get involved. Although each woman’s background was different, they were alike in their beauty and, more importantly, in their desire to give back to their countries and to make a difference. My ‘trainees’ included:
- Larissa Costa, Brazil–Miss Brazil 2009 (who graciously braved a language barrier AND a broken toe to headline our event)
- Nayla Micherif, Brazil–Miss Brazil 1997, Current National Director
- Justine Pasek, Panama–Miss Universe 2002
- Crystle Stewart, Texas–Miss USA 2008
- Amelia Vega, Dominican Republic–Miss Universe 2003
Justine Pasek, Amelia Vega, Kari Stoever (GN), Crystle Stewart, Paula Shugart (MUO), Stormi Henley, Kristen Dalton, Larissa Costa, Nayla Micherif, Natalia Anderle, Erin Hohlfelder (GN). Photograph by Evan Wilder
As we went through the slides and reviewed the talking points, I couldn’t help but notice that their reactions were the same as so many others who first learn about NTDs: Horror at the disfiguring nature of the diseases; shock at the low-cost treatments available (“Just 50 cents? Seriously?!”); and a desire to get involved right away.
And just because they’re beauty queens doesn’t mean that they have been shielded from these diseases, particularly in the tropical countries of Latin America. In fact, you might be surpised to know that at least one of the former Miss Universes remembered having a worm infection as a child!
After a full day of NTD school, the girls were ready for our cocktail reception, mingling with donors, NGOs, CEOs, and politicos like professionals. To all the guests’ surprise, Amelia Vega even felt compelled to give remarks to the entire crowd about her new passion for the cause. Watching from the side like a proud coach, I couldn’t help but be excited that this was only the launching point for our partnership with these Misses and more to come. I can’t wait to get them out in the field to see their true advocacy power in action. Until then, I’ll be practicing my pageant smile and they’ll be practicing the pronunciation of schistosomiasis.
About the author
Erin Hohlfelder is the Policy Associate for the Global Network. When she's not talking to Congress and writing about the burden of NTDs around the world, she enjoys coffee, travel, and the Pittsburgh Steelers. Follow her on twitter @Global_ErinH.
Wonderful story of how arming the right people with knowledge on issues such as Neglected Tropical Diseases can help further the cause of ameliorating the threat they pose to countless people across the world. Looking forward to hearing how your recruits do in the field, Erin!