Toussaint: We flew on Air Seychelles, and it was a 10-hour flight. We left at night and arrived in the morning. We were serenaded by the community when we landed. It was incredible. There was a big celebration. They threw rose petals at us, and we danced with them. They gave us drinks in coconut shells. It was just incredible. They also placed leis over our heads. Then, we had a police escort with helicopters overhead. We went down the main road in the Seychelles, and people were lining the streets. Children were not in schools. They were on the streets in their little uniforms. It was so wonderful. They were screaming to us, "Welcome to the Seychelles." It was just incredible. It almost brought tears to my eyes. People were out in front of their homes standing in their yards waving at us. It really felt good.

PNB: How long were you in the Seychelles and how were your days spent?

Toussaint: We were in the Seychelles for about three weeks. We attended several charity dinners and fashion shows. The contestants also visited children in schools. Later, we started shooting the swimsuit video and the national costume video, which was a little dance. Then, of course, we would practice for the show. It wasn't really hectic like I thought it would be. I spent a lot of time in my room.

PNB: Besides the competition, what was your most memorable activity while you were in the Seychelles?

Toussaint: It would have to be visiting the children. I really enjoyed visiting the children in the different schools because you got a chance to talk to them. They were so innocent and so respectful. I really wish that more American kids would have the kind of manners that these children have.

PNB: Have you made any promotional appearances in the United States?

Toussaint: I'm going to get a really good press agent and promote myself in the fields of modeling and journalism. I'm taking more photos and updating my portfolio. I am also presently completing my degree in journalism.

PNB: Will you represent GuyRex and the Miss World Pageant at any events this year?

Toussaint: No, I'm my own agent and I'll have to promote myself. It's not like Miss USA and Miss Universe, where they take total control of you for a year. As the U.S. representative in the Miss World system, you can still go to school, and you can still hold a job, but you can also use your title to your advantage. You can also compete in the Miss United Nations Pageant.

PNB: What is the Miss United Nations Pageant?

Toussaint: The Miss United Nations Pageant is another international contest that is usually held in a South American country. Miss Russia won last year. I'm not sure what the prizes are. Of course, it is not as prestigious as Universe and World, but it is well-known in South America.

PNB: What is the official title that you hold?

Toussaint: Miss World USA.

More talk with Sallie Toussaint ...

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