On the evening of August 15, the reigning Miss World, Opal Suchata, was received by Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya at the Sukhothai Royal Palace in Bangkok, in celebration of her Miss World victory and the role she has been playing around the globe as a Beauty With a Purpose and Breast Cancer Awarness and Prevention ambassador.

Opal arrived at the palace at around 3:00 in the afternoon, accompanied by the Miss World and Miss World Thailand teams. While awaiting the audience, the group was served fresh fruit, and savory snacks. Opal spent part of this time being photographed in an exquisite creation from the Princess’s own fashion house, Sirivannavari, designed especially for the occasion by Thai fashion legend Tirapan “Pom” Vanarat, National Artist in Visual Arts (Fashion Design) 2019.

The Miss World delegation was then escorted through the palace’s beautiful gardens to the reception area. Before the meeting, the six members of the ceremony received a protocol briefing. They waited for the Princess facing the door and, upon her entrance, instinctively moved forward and bowed. Following Thai tradition, each guest, starting with Miss World, presented a floral garland to Her Royal Highness, accompanied by a bow. After receiving the garland, the Princess returned the gesture, and the guests bowed once more before taking their seats.

During the audience, the Princess praised the Miss World Organization, represented on the occasion by Show Director Steve Douglas, for its enduring mission. She remarked that Miss World is someone who communicates effectively, carries herself with elegance, and embraces a clear purpose, truly representing something meaningful. She expressed pride in Opal, noting that she had, in her own way, helped prepare her, teaching her about breast cancer awareness, royal protocols, fashion and more. Opal expressed deep gratitude for this valuable mentorship.

Understanding the reasons, the Princess also expressed regret that Julia Morley CBE was not present, noting that she had been impressed by her appearance on television and describing her as having “a beautiful heart.” Her Royal Highness shared her wish to meet Julia in October.

Throughout the meeting, Opal remained kneeling as a sign of respect, maintaining close interaction with the Princess. All members of the royal entourage, including security personnel and nurses, were also kneeling. The Princess wore a richly crafted outfit made from fabric produced without chemicals, part of her own Sirivannavari collection. Her presence was vibrant, her eyes bright and lively. She was accompanied into the room by her two Yorkshire terriers dressed in matching blue gowns with oversized bows!

The audience concluded with photographs of the Princess embracing Miss World, who remained kneeling. The Miss World Organization reaffirmed its commitment, through the reigning Miss World, to promote the charitable and cultural initiatives taking place in Thailand, many led by members of the Royal Family.

Notably, just one day earlier, on August 14, Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya was awarded the prestigious WIPO Award for Creativity Excellence, presented by Mr. Daren Tang, Director General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). The honor recognized her creative ingenuity in intellectual property, fashion, and design, as well as her remarkable contributions to preserving Thai culture and tradition, while fostering a sustainable future for local artisans and their communities.

It was truly an evening to remember!