Moses Lake's Saini crowned Miss India Worldwide

Moses Lake — Moses Lake’s own Shree Saini was named Miss India Worldwide on Friday.

Saini won the 27th annual Miss India Worldwide pageant after a grueling week of rehearsals and competition that bounced between New York and New Jersey which included young women from the Indian communities in over 20 countries.

“It feels surreal to be crowned your Miss India Worldwide,” Saini said.

Saini, a graduate of Moses Lake High School, was crowned Miss India USA in Bellevue in late 2017.

After a year of traveling — including to five foreign countries — speechmaking and visiting Indian communities across the United States while juggling her schedule as a full-time student at the University of Washington, Saini said she’s more than prepared for what being Miss India Worldwide means.

“I really prioritize education,” Saini said. “I graduate in June, and I want a strong finish rather than take time off. I’m even more equipped this year to balance school and work.”

Saini said she plans to continue promoting her two main charitable causes, heart disease and mental health. When she was 12, Saini required open-heart surgery to install a pacemaker. She will also continue to promote self-confidence, a positive outlook and kindness as a way to deal with the difficulties of life.

“I truly believe that (life) depends on your perspective,” Saini said. “Having a solutions mindset, trying to solve problems, become a bigger person and responding with kindness.”

Saini said last week’s competition for the world title involved a number of 12-hour days rehearsing the dance moves they would need during the competition.

“It’s more than just how you look,” Saini said. “How a girl walks on stage, presents herself, communicates her message, it’s all about a strong presence on stage.”

Saini said that even thought she will be busy traveling and speaking and studying, she also wants to remain approachable here in the community where she grew up.

“I went to high school in Moses Lake, I represented our county, the USA, in the competition,” she said. “I see this as a year of service, and I’m open to invitations. People can contact me.”

Charles H. Featherstone can be reached via email at cfeatherstone@columbiabasinherald.com.