Tanzania’s Jihan Dimack has been crowned Miss Grand International 2026, securing a historic victory at the pageant’s grand finale held on October 10 at MGI Hall, Bravo BKK, in Bangkok, Thailand. Her win marks the first time Tanzania has claimed the prestigious international title, succeeding the Philippines’ Emma Mary Tiglao, who won the crown in 2025.
Dimack emerged victorious after competing against contestants representing countries from across the world. Ecuador’s Shyare Andrade was named first runner-up, followed by Beau Megan Goos of the Netherlands as second runner-up. Guatemala’s Ximena Carrillo secured third runner-up, while Vietnam’s Emoura Phạm finished as fourth runner-up.
Sri Lanka was represented at the international competition by Nethaki Lokugamage, who earned the opportunity to compete on the global stage after winning the Miss Grand Sri Lanka 2026 title. The 20-year-old Sri Lankan contestant is a psychology undergraduate, model and volunteer who advocates for improving educational opportunities for underprivileged children. Her platform focuses on empowering young people through education and encouraging women to use their voices and influence to create positive change. Although Sri Lanka was not represented among the announced top finalists, Nethaki’s participation brought the country into the international pageant spotlight.
The Philippines’ representative, Angelica Lopez, was also among the contestants competing for the crown but did not secure a place in the final Top 11. However, she earned recognition in the national costume segment, receiving the Best National Costume award for an outfit inspired by the mangkukulam, a figure associated with Philippine folklore. Her design incorporated a striking sculpture and visual elements reflecting the supernatural character of the traditional folklore figure.
Dimack’s victory was supported by her previous experience in international pageantry. She represented Tanzania at the 2016 Miss Universe competition, which was hosted in the Philippines, and returned to the international stage a decade later to claim the Miss Grand International crown.
During the final question-and-answer round, the contestants were asked what qualities an empowered woman should possess. Dimack highlighted kindness, drawing inspiration from her mother and describing how compassion, generosity and a willingness to put others first can help women lead and influence the world. Her response emphasised the importance of character and empathy alongside confidence and achievement.
The 2026 edition was initially scheduled to take place in India, which would have marked the competition’s first staging in South Asia. However, the organisers moved the event back to Thailand shortly before the scheduled arrival of contestants, citing the host committee’s failure to meet the organisation’s required standards. Despite the change, the organisers maintained the original October 10 date for the grand finale.
Miss Grand International, founded in 2013, has grown into an international beauty pageant that combines competition with messages centred on peace and social awareness. The organisation is expected to stage its 15th edition in Thailand in 2027, with organisers signalling plans for a special celebration to mark the milestone.
For Sri Lanka, Nethaki Lokugamage’s participation adds another chapter to the country’s presence on the international pageant circuit, providing an opportunity to showcase Sri Lankan talent and perspectives to a global audience.
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