Joheirry Mola wins Miss World title for Dominican Republic

Joheirry Mola Dominguez of the Dominican Republic has been crowned Miss World 2026, bringing the prestigious title back to her country 44 years after its first victory.

The 24-year-old teacher, journalist, community advocate and model won the crown at the grand finale in Nha Trang, Vietnam, on Saturday, emerging as the winner from a field of 111 contestants.

Spain’s Elisabeth Reynés was named first runner-up, while Malaysia’s Taanusiya Chetty finished as second runner-up. Thailand’s Opal Suchata Chuangsri, who won the Miss World title in 2025, crowned Mola as her successor.

Mola’s victory marks only the second Miss World crown for the Dominican Republic. The country’s first title was won by Mariasela Álvarez in 1982.

Mola holds a degree in Business Management and Administration from Universidad Iberoamericana. She also works as an educator and communicator and teaches Literature and Social Studies in English.

She is the founder and president of Voices of Tomorrow, an initiative focused on promoting English-language education among children and young people in vulnerable communities. The project aims to help them develop confidence, communication skills and better opportunities for the future.

Her social-impact work played an important role during the competition. In the final question-and-answer round, Mola highlighted the importance of teaching English to children to expand their educational and communication opportunities.

The competition featured several stages, with contestants advancing through regional and overall selections before the final six were chosen. The Top 6 included representatives from Eritrea, Spain, Malaysia, Vietnam, the Dominican Republic and South Africa.

The 2026 pageant was held in Vietnam for the first time, with contestants taking part in various challenges and activities linked to the Miss World platform and its Beauty With a Purpose initiative.

Mola’s win gives the Dominican Republic its second Miss World title and establishes her as the country’s new representative on the international stage.