COLORFUL FINALISTS

Air lives in Marikina City with her 11-year-old daughter. A single mom, she used to be a performer at Universal Studios in Singapore. Abused by her ex husband, Air hopes to become an advocate for women’s rights.

Japo has a degree in AB Philosophy from UP. A former ‘hardcore underground activist’ she is a member of the Cebu Dragon Boat Team and an environmentalist. She also dabbles in film (documentaries) and photography.

Feisty and uber-competitive half-bred Darlene used to be a model but quit after gaining weight. She hopes to get back in shape to win.

A former wild child Karen served jail time. Her life took a 360-degree turn when she became a Christian. She hopes to inspire other ladies through her story of redemption.

Rounding up the list is Gillien who suffers from Alopecia. The family’s breadwinner she used to work as a photographer at the Manila Ocean Park.

For the past seven weeks, finalists have gone thru various positive transformations on Physical Appearance, Personality Development, Image Enhancement, Career Development, and Goal Setting with the help of resident judges and mentors Ms. World 2011 1st Princess Gwendolyn Ruais, and A-list producer Mike Carandang of America’s Next Top Model.

‘The tilt is sincere about developing its unlikely hopefuls’ potential—and making them legit contenders for the competition’s “crown”—or, at least, as far as their inherent limitations will allow them to prosper and persevere!’ wrote Nestor Torre, PDI columnist about the pageant.

Charo Soriano of Samsara Productions, show producer said GKMBQ is about women empowerment. “More than anything this show is about discovery and making choices. We hope to bring about raising the real standards of beauty in this nation – one that puts stock on the ‘inner woman’ as much as her outward manifestation and expression.”

The show’s winner will receive P1-million worth of cash and services from John Robert Powers and Beverly Hills 6750.