Dominicans --and Latinos-- everywhere are celebrating the crowning of the new "Nuestra Belleza Latina" queen, Clarissa Molina as she becomes the second consecutive Dominican to nab the coveted title for the island. Francisca Lachapel, for those who may recall, won "Nuestra Belleza Latina" in 2015. After a nerve-racking grand finale, where Pablo Alboran, Wisin and Julion Alvarez all performed, Molina is now the new reigning queen, representing the beloved caribbean.
At the grand finale, which aired Sunday night live on Univision, Colombian Barbara Turbay was named third finalist, Puerto RIcan Catherine Castro took the second finalist spot and Mexican Setareh Khatib was named first finalist, nabbing the CEA Scholarship to study in Televisa. Lachapel took one last walk down the renowned runway and crowned her fellow 24-year-old Dominican, who the audience's hearts and votes all over the U.S.
Following her well-deserving win, we talked to the "Nuestra Belleza Latina" Season 10 winner and this is everything she had to say!
LATIN TIMES: For a second, you thought that Setareh was going to be the new queen of "Nuestra Belleza Latina." What made you think that?
CLARISSA MOLINA: I know I have the support of the fans, but I also took in consideration the judges and production team and in my mind I thought that they would want a Mexican to win the competition. When they said my name, I had to scream because I couldn't believe it. The back-to-back win and for Francisca to hand me the crown was a very emotional moment.
LT: It's not the first time you win a crown. In fact, you were Miss Dominican Republic at the 2015 Miss Universe. But what makes the "NBL" crown different than any other crown?
CM: This crown not only represents Dominicans, but also every Latino around the world, who is following their dreams just like I am. It's my way of telling everyone that dreams come true with perseverance and dedication. This crown is like a school for me with everything that "Nuestra Belleza Latina" has taught me. Working in Univision will also prepare me for what will be my professional growth.
LT: Do you know what show you'll be working in?
CM: Yes! My fans can watch me from Monday to Friday in "El Gordo y La Flaca" with Lili Estefan and Raul de Molina. I'm very happy because the show is a challenge. It takes me out of my comfort zone because although it's a relax ambience we have to be a bit strong with the chismes and entertainment news.
LT: In the grand finale you mom said you are living her dream of becoming a reigning beauty queen. In the future, if you were to have a daughter, would you let her follow your footsteps?
CM: She's going to grow up watching me in the industry. If she wants to do beauty pageants or do something else, I will support her. However, I won't tell her what she needs to do, it's whatever her heart tells her and I'll be there.
LT: You're moving from New York City to Miami to work in Univision. What are some things you like about Miami?
CM: I like the heat. I like the palm trees, it reminds me a lot of Dominican Republic. I like Cuban food. I like the beaches. I like the people, everyone is very sweet. I feel that I'm in my country.
LT: Speaking of Dominican Republic, will you be returning to your native country to celebrate?
CM: In the future yes, I'll be traveling to Dominican Republic to thank my fans personally and let them know that I am extremely grateful for their support. They were with me at every moment and I'm looking forward to going back home.
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