ONE CROWN - TAKING THE WORLD TO GOA. MISS GOA INTERNATIONAL 2026 Holds Its First Edition

The inaugural edition of MISS GOA INTERNATIONAL 2026 was held in the United Kingdom at Radisson RED London Heathrow on 6 September 2026. The event was directed by Milroy Goés, co-founder of the pageant, a Film Director and Emmy Voting Member in Hollywood.

The pageant was founded by J&D Entertainment, Navayah Films, Moqui Pictures, and an Event Architect, bringing together established names from the worlds of entertainment, film, distribution and event production.

The vision of Miss Goa International is to bring talented women of Goan heritage from around the world together under one platform, offering them more than a crown. The pageant aims to create opportunities in film, television, fashion and entertainment, while helping its titleholders develop their confidence, public presence and professional careers as recognised public figures.

The pageant also offers a total prize fund of £10,000, which will be divided among the three winners.

The Grand Finale was judged by celebrity judges, including former UK Minister and MP, Silver Star Diabetes Chairman Rt. Hon. Keith Vaz; British Actress Holly Prentice; International Title Holder Meurel Viegas; Lounge Manager at Heathrow Airport Savio Terry; and Cancer Biologist and PhD Research Scholar Seazel Fernandes.

Founder and Film Director Milroy Goés has also compiled the pageant into a limited episodic series, capturing the preparations, personalities and journey leading up to the event. The episodes were filmed by Kashmiri Lal, Cliffer Rebello and edited in Hollywood, Los Angeles, by Television Academy member Parmindar Karla.

A limited-edition MISS GOA INTERNATIONAL 2026 magazine and official 2027 calendar will be released later this year, offering sponsors a valuable opportunity to showcase their brands through premium advertising and editorial features while reaching the pageant’s growing international audience.

Entries for MISS GOA INTERNATIONAL 2027 is now open, from October 2026, visit the website for more info www.missgoainternational.com

One of the most notable paintings created during the Talent Round was a live canvas painting by Richelle Travassos, depicting Goa as seen through a window. Richelle generously donated the painting to the organising committee. The painting will be put up for auction, with a portion of the proceeds being donated to a charity to be selected by the founders of Miss Goa International.

Miss Goa International 2026 Title Holder: Miss. Fay Fernandes

Miss Goa International 2026 title holder: Miss. Fay Fernandes, represents far more than winning a pageant or wearing a crown. It is the fulfilment of a dream shared not only by Fay herself, but also by two of the most important people in her life: her mum and her best friend, who believed in that dream alongside her.

Originally from the beautiful state of Goa, Fay is currently studying Accounting and Finance, balancing her academic ambitions with a love for creativity, culture and new experiences. Away from her studies, she has a particularly creative eye for makeup and enjoys experimenting with different looks. She is also happiest playing badminton, dancing or spending time around a board game, something she proudly describes as being a little “old school”.

Fay’s journey into pageantry began with a very personal challenge which was overcoming her stage fright. Entering the pageant meant deliberately stepping outside of her comfort zone and confronting something that had previously intimidated her. What began as an opportunity to challenge herself ultimately became an experience that showed her just how much can happen when you refuse to allow fear to make your decisions for you.

Being crowned Miss Goa International 2026 therefore became a defining moment. As her name was announced, the crown represented the courage it had taken to stand on that stage, but it also represented something much more emotional seeing a dream that had been shared with her mum and best friend finally become reality.

That experience has left Fay with a message she hopes others will take from her journey, nothing is impossible when you truly try with all your heart. She hopes her story can encourage others to pursue opportunities that frighten them, because sometimes the things outside our comfort zones are exactly where our most memorable moments are waiting.

Beyond pageantry, giving back is important to Fay. Earlier this year, she raised money for Cancer Research UK, supporting a cause particularly close to her heart. She also will be donating a portion of her cash price for the victims in Nepal due to the recent floods. She hopes to continue using the opportunities surrounding her title to create a positive impact while representing both herself and her heritage with pride.

During her reign, one of Fay’s ambitions is to introduce Goa and its identity to more people outside of the Indian community. She hopes that carrying the title of Miss Goa International will create opportunities to celebrate the place she comes from, share more about Goan culture and encourage people who may know little about Goa to discover what makes it so special.

Fay’s winning dress and crown are set to be displayed as part of an upcoming charity exhibition organised by Miss Berkshire 2026. Alongside them will be information explaining the significance of her title and introducing visitors to more about Goa allowing the symbols of one unforgettable night to become part of something that educates, celebrates culture and contributes to a charitable occasion.

As Miss Goa International 2026, Fay begins her journey with gratitude for the people who believed in her, pride in where she comes from and excitement for what lies ahead. Most importantly, she carries with her the lesson that brought her to the crown in the first place, fear does not have to be the end of a dream. Sometimes, having the courage to try is exactly where that dream begins.

First Runner Up: Miss Luanna Fernandes

First Runner Up Miss Luanna Fernandes is a professional model and footballer from Goa whose journey reflects determination and resilience. Once aspiring to become an inspector, she was encouraged by her cousin to explore modelling after recognizing her height, confidence, and presence.

Luanna began modelling in 2017, representing Goa at Elite Model Look India 2017 and placing among the Top 8 finalists. Her career was interrupted by a serious accident while travelling to a show, which left her with around 45 stitches on her face. She stepped away from modelling for about a year and a half to recover.

Her mother’s encouragement gave her the strength to return: “If you believe in yourself, nothing can stop you. Take your time, get back on your feet and go achieve what you want.” Luanna embraced her scars and resumed her career, continuing to pursue modelling despite the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

In 2026, she represented Goa at Miss Goa International 2026 in London, where she was crowned First Runner Up. Beyond pageantry and modelling, she is also a professional footballer who has represented Vintage 73.

From aspiring inspector to model, footballer, and international pageant finalist, Luanna’s story reflects resilience and the ability to move forward despite unexpected setbacks.

Second Runner Up: Miss. Erika Martha Dcosta

Second Runners Up Miss. Erika Martha Dcosta is a multicultural, internationally travelled woman shaped by resilience, curiosity and determination to dream beyond boundaries.

Born in St Cruz, Goa, and raised in Chinchinim, Erika carries a rich Indian-Portuguese heritage. She moved to the United Kingdom at a young age, learning to embrace different cultures while remaining connected to her roots.

At 12, Erika experienced the loss of her father, a defining moment that taught her resilience and strength. Today, she speaks Konkani, English, Portuguese and French, reflecting her passion for communication and cultural understanding.

As a cabin crew professional, Erika has travelled extensively, experiencing different countries and communities. For her, travel is about collecting perspectives, creating connections and discovering the stories behind each destination.

She is fascinated by architecture, particularly historic buildings and modern spaces, which she sees as expressions of culture and history. She is also passionate about Jive and belly dancing, strengthening her confidence, discipline and self-expression.

Looking ahead, Erika dreams of entering international fashion and luxury, including major Fashion Week platforms and opportunities with luxury brands. She hopes to bring her heritage and authentic perspective to every opportunity.

Her journey reminds us that difficult beginnings do not define the future. Erika continues moving forward with grace, curiosity and courage.

Discover Miss Goa International

For more information about MISS GOA INTERNATIONAL, including upcoming opportunities, announcements, and details about the 2027 edition, visit missgoainternational.com.

Follow the official Miss Goa International Instagram to stay connected with the pageant, its contestants, titleholders, and upcoming activities. Readers can also follow Fay Fernandes on Instagram to follow her journey as Miss Goa International 2026 and Milroy Goés on Instagram for updates from the filmmaker and co-founder behind the pageant.

Learn more about the event’s entertainment partner at J&D Entertainment.