10:37, 25/08/2026

Miss World 2026: From "Head to Head Challenge" to stories about Khanh Hoa

On the morning of August 24, Khanh Hoa Children's Cultural Palace continued to host "Head to Head Challenge", one of the important competition segments of Miss World 2026. Contestants from the Asia and Oceania presented their personal journeys, community projects, and core advocacy values.

An overview of Head to Head Challenge 
An overview of Head to Head Challenge 

Cambodian contestant Leakena In expressed her honor in representing her country to share what she cares about, focusing on her ongoing children’ welfare projects. Through her story and the Miss World platform, she wishes to spread awareness for children's welfare and expand her contributions to children in Cambodia. Not only bringing stories about community activities to the stage, Leakena In also shared her affinity for Khanh Hoa. This is her second time visiting Khanh Hoa, and she has had unforgettable experiences. She described it as an fantastic destination worth discovering, and she hopes to have more opportunities to return to enjoy the beauty here.

Cambodian contestant Leakena In delivers her presentation during Head to Head Challenge
Cambodian contestant Leakena In delivers her presentation during Head to Head Challenge

For Philippine contestant Asia Rose Simpson, Head to Head Challenge is one of the most important sub-competitions of Miss World. Before taking the stage, she focused on maintaining composure and focus. "I hope to share what is truly meaningful to me, from my background and personal story to the values I believe in. I am excited and grateful for the opportunity to speak about the things I pursue," she said.

Contestants share stories backstage during the competition 
Contestants share stories backstage during the competition 

According to Pham Tuan Ngoc, Mr World Vietnam 2024 and operations director of Miss World in Vietnam, the Head to Head Challenge is a critical sub-competition that is one of the foundations creating the core values of the pageant in its journey of more than 70 years. Beyond creating an opportunity for the contestants to showcase their public speaking capabilities, it serves as a platform for them to share personal experiences and present community development projects.

Contestants listen to the presentations of fellow participants 
Contestants listen to the presentations of fellow participants 

Earlier, on August 22, Round 1 of the "Head to Head Challenge" for contestants from Europe and the Americas took place at the Provincial Children's Cultural Palace.

Following the competitions across continental groups, the panel of judges selected the top five outstanding contestants from each group to advance further. The winners of the four continental groups will enter the Championship round, simultaneously earning the title of Head to Head Winner and securing a place in the Top 40 of the Miss World final round.

In the Championship Round, the four group winners will have two to three minutes to deliver a presentation as a Vietnam tourism ambassador. Drawing from their own practical experiences during their stay in Vietnam, the contestants will promote Vietnam to international tourists. Consequently, their recent tour activities across Khanh Hoa Province play a key role in preparing them for this final presentation.

 

THAI NGOC HUY
Translated by H.N