Daria Gapska has been crowned the 2022 Miss Northern Ireland at the glittering black tie event at the Europa Hotel, Belfast on Monday 23rd May.
The stunning 20-year-old student nurse and mental health ward clerk from Ballymena impressed the panel of judges on the night with her beauty, charm and personality, giving her the winning edge over twenty-three other finalists, to acquire the coveted crown from previous title holder, Anna Leitch.
The exclusive gala final was a glamorous affair hosted by radio representer and fashionista Rebekah McKinnley and former Miss Northern Ireland and current Miss World Europa Anna Leitch.
Contest organiser and Managing Director of top Belfast modelling agency ACA Models, Victoria Withers said:
“We are thrilled that Daria has won the title. Although the standard of talent has been extremely high this year, Daria has really sparkled throughout the contest, and she certainly wowed the judging panel on the night.
Winner Daria Gapska said:
“I am absolutely delighted to wear the Miss Northern Ireland crown and be given the opportunity to represent Northern Ireland in this way!
“Taking part in the contest has been such an immense experience and I never thought I would come this far. I’ve always looked up to previous Miss Northern Ireland winners, so I hope to follow in their footsteps and become a positive role model for other local girls.
“The competition has already been such a life changing experience and I have made friends for life. Winning this title is undoubtedly life changing and I can’t wait to see what the future has in store for me!”
On handing over her title, the 2021 winner Anna Leitch said:
“I’ve had an incredible year as Miss Northern Ireland and cannot believe that I am a continental queen Miss World Europe. It’s been real honour fulfilling this role and I’ve gained so much from my experience.
“It’s with a heavy heart that I relinquish my crown, but I am so happy to be passing it to Daria, who is a deserving winner. I wish her all the very best for her year as Miss Northern Ireland 2022.”
Daria will receive an extensive prize package worth thousands of pounds including a year’s modelling contract with ACA Models, an all-expenses paid trip to Miss World, one years beauty treatments from Beauty Boulevard, a make- up hamper from Make Up Pro Store worth over £500, a stunning Vauxhall Adam provided by Sell Your Car to Jax.com for her year of reign, a new designer wardrobe provided by Rosie’s Closet and much much more.
Runner’s up on the night were Lucy Johnston aged 19 from Richhill who came second in the contest and Poppy Smith aged 21 from Portadown who was placed third.