First Ever Makeup-Free Beauty Pageant Crowns Dental Nurse As Winner

Oct 10, 2023 by apost team

The Miss England organization hosted its first-ever makeup-free regional heat for Miss London on Sept. 29, 2023. Challenging traditional beauty standards, the pageant was held at the luxurious Taj 51 Buckingham Gate Suites and Residences in London, and this unique event emphasized the beauty of natural appearances, devoid of any cosmetic enhancements.

Leading the charge was Natasha Beresford, a 26-year-old dental nurse from London, who was crowned as the inaugural makeup-free Miss London winner. 

Originally from Sheffield, Beresford began her career as a dental nurse in 2021 at the Royal London Dental Hospital. There, she earned the affectionate nickname "real-life tooth fairy" for her dedicated work in Project Tooth Fairy, which provided dental treatments to children under general anesthetic. She later moved to a private dental practice clinic in Chiswick.

Beyond her professional achievements, Bereford's commitment to community service shines brightly. In September 2022, she volunteered in Uganda with the charity Dentaid, offering dental treatments to over 1,300 individuals in need.

The Miss London pageant is a qualifier for the main Miss England competition, which will be held in the Spring of 2024. It will also be conducted entirely without makeup, emphasizing natural appearances and beautiful hair.

Participants were required to submit a makeup-free photo on the Miss England website. Those selected then participated in various stages of the competition, including auditions, a semi-final photoshoot, and the final catwalk, sans any cosmetics.

The Miss England pageant has its roots dating back to 1928. In its initial years, the pageant primarily focused on physical beauty. However, as societal norms and values evolved, so did the criteria for the competition. Throughout its history, the Miss England pageant has produced winners who have gone on to represent England at the Miss World competition, one of the most renowned international beauty pageants. 

"I am thrilled to have been selected as Miss London. All the girls that competed are so beautiful and truly inspirational, so it was an honor to be chosen," Beresford remarked. 

"I find my job really rewarding, over the years I have worked in the NHS, as well as private and urgent care dental practices," she added, reflecting on her passion for her job. "For the future, I would like to do further training in dental radiography and oral health education."

The pageant also showcased a diverse array of contestants, each with their unique stories and achievements. Among the diverse and talented contestants was Afrose Ameen, a 23-year-old engineering prodigy from Lewisham. Ameen's achievements extend beyond the pageant stage; she played a significant role in contributing to the development of the Elizabeth Line on the London Underground. Her involvement in such a monumental infrastructure project showcases her dedication to her field and her ability to break barriers in a predominantly male-dominated industry.

Another standout contestant was Temi Adeyemi, a 26-year-old from Enfield, Middlesex. Juggling her roles as an accounts assistant by day and a model by night, Adeyemi embodies the modern woman's ability to excel in diverse fields. Her presence on the pageant stage not only showcased her beauty but also her multifaceted talents and professional acumen.

Adding to the roster of impressive participants was Alanta Richards, a young 17-year-old beauty therapy student hailing from Surrey. Despite her young age, Richards exuded confidence and poise, representing the aspirations of many young women looking to make their mark in the beauty industry. Her participation underscored the pageant's commitment to providing a platform for women of all ages.

Their stories and achievements highlighted the pageant's dedication to inclusivity, celebrating the diverse facets of beauty and accomplishment found in women across England.

apost.com

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