Inside the mind of Yendi Phillipps
Sean A. Bennett, Youthlink Writer

Contributed photos

But who really is Yendi? In one sentence, the 22-year-old describes herself as 'energetic', 'the laid-back, girl-next-door who happens to be way too blessed'. Equipped with a smile that can literally light up a room and reasoning beyond her years, she tries not to take everything seriously and is a testament that having a positive outlook does open doors. Humbled by the gift of life, the past student of St. Andrew High School and The Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts cites her 'composed and driven' mother as being the person with the biggest impact on her life. But we wanted to find out more, so get to know Yendi in this exclusive Youthlink telephone interview.

What motivates you?

Life. I feel blessed to wake up in the morning and that pushes me to not stagnate.

How was life in high school and were you always this self-confident?

Rough! (laughs) No, not at all, I was very insecure, I still do have some level of insecurity, but you are who you are, and I have learnt to appreciate my insecurities and love me for me.

After leaving high school, you chose to dance. Why dancing?

It's one thing to have a job, but it is another to have a passion, and dancing is my passion. I believe that while you're here, you should do what makes you happy.

You were a model before entering the competition. How was that for you?

It was great. I see my body as an art. I think when used tastefully and tactfully, I can have an impact in what I do.

How has winning changed your life?

I have to be cute when I go to the supermarket. (laughs) It has really made me aware that I'm always going to be looked at, so I always have to think clearly about the things I do and say before I act.

What's the hardest thing about being Miss Jamaica World?

The hardest thing is that people may expect me to be perfect and they sometimes don't realise that I'm human.

How is the relationship with your father and are you a daddy's girl?

He is such a great person. When growing up, I did everything he did (he affectionately calls her shadow); yes, I am a daddy's girl.

If your daughter told you she wanted to enter the competition, would you encourage her?

Yes, I would. But she would have to have an education first (laughs).

What's the craziest thing that's ever happened to you?

A guy from Nigeria had sent me a message on Hi5 (before the crowning) that he would love for me to marry him and prepare his meals and I could raise his five children!

When was the last time you cried and why?

The Sunday night of the competition. I was confused about what was happening but proud of my moment.

What do you look for in a guy?

I look for someone who is spiritually grounded, very positive and responsible, but can be silly as well (laughs).

What are your expectations of your trip to Sanya, China, later this year?

I expect to learn a lot. I think it's going to be a very rewarding experience.

Which charitable organisation would you love to get involved with?

I would love to do work with the arts by implementing programmes in schools. But since the passage of Hurricane Dean, I'll be focusing on relief efforts, beginning with a celebrity fashion show fund-raiser on October 21.

When your reign is done, how would you like to be remembered?

(Laughs) I would like to be remembered as 'the people's queen', as an ambassador for the people.

Yendi's quick six

• Her favourite drink is water.
  
  
• It annoys her when a person interrupts her when she tries to sleep.
  
  
• She likes little boys, so when having children, she wants two, three or four.
  
  
• Besides Oprah, she would have loved to meet Princess Diana.
  
  
• Her life's philosophy is: 'you only live once. Life is short, live in love and live it up!'
  
  
• She is happiest at the beach or when she's chilling with friends.