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Shen Del Cruz, the new Miss ABConservation, aboard a bangka for the pre-pageant photoshoot. [ABConservation credit]
Shen Del Cruz – Pre-election photo shoot. [Credit: ABConservation]
The beautiful Filipina Shen was crowned during the grand ceremony in honor of the ABConservation association, which took place in Puerto Princesa last Saturday. She thus becomes the first Miss ABConservation and agreed to answer our questions after a long night of celebration! Discover everything about this big-hearted Miss in three questions and a Proust questionnaire.
If you had to introduce yourself in a few words, what would you say?
I am a dynamic and positive young woman. Having lived in Palawan from a very young age, I was fortunate to be raised in a loving family that instilled in me many values. This island and its treasures have taught me that nature is one of the most precious things available to mankind, so I work as much as I can for its conservation.
"Ensure the survival, protection and conservation of the binturong in the wild", that's what it's all about
Why did you run for the Miss ABConservation election?
ABConservation is an association that has been working tirelessly in Palawan for several years now, and for even longer in France. It is involved in a little bit of everything, from education and awareness-raising to field conservation projects. Beyond the binturong, which is a truly endearing animal, the association works for environmental protection, and its motto has always inspired me. «To ensure the survival, protection, and conservation of the binturong in the wild»—it's all there, ultimately, if we want to take action for nature. So when I heard about the election, it felt completely natural for me to sign up. Plus, the association was founded on July 8th, my birthday. It was a sign not to be missed!
How did you feel when the announcement was made?
To be honest, I didn't believe it! Once the surprise wore off, it gave way to immense joy and, above all, great pride. Becoming an ambassador for the association is a true recognition of my work for environmental protection, and I am proud to be able to represent it during the various events that will be organized this year.
Shen celebrating his coronation. [ABC Conservation Credit]
Chinese portrait
Your astrological sign : Cancer
Your icon : Anita Conti, the first female oceanographer, for her incredible work on the oceans, at a time when few women had access to education.
Your bedside book : Silent Spring by Rachel Carson, for the author's courage in denouncing what was one of the greatest ecological scandals of the last century.
Your favorite movie : Princess Mononoke, which is actually an animated film, but whose story told by Miyazaki is absolutely magical.
Your main character trait : Sensitive and altruistic
Your mantra : «We are the main threat to nature, unless we decide to do something about it.»
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