Contestants from several countries gathered in Dublin for a multicultural pageant that combined cultural celebration with an educational message about drug prevention.
Approximately 450 people attended the Dublin programme, where 24 contestants representing seven nations presented their cultures, talents and personal messages.
The organisers worked with The Truth About Drugs Ireland to include an educational element alongside the pageant and cultural performances.
The programme began with an educational exhibition where visitors could review factual information about drugs, addiction and prevention. Many of the contestants studied Truth About Drugs materials in advance, and several completed the full series of fourteen online courses.
Cllr. Francis Timmons, Mayor of South Dublin, spoke during the programme about the importance of bringing communities together through education.
The pageant was accompanied by a diverse cultural programme featuring dancers from several community organisations.
At the news eua end of the competition, Niveditha Vudayagiri was named Miss Cross Continent 2026. Fortunate Lindokuhle Masina was named first runner-up, while Yuki Yuliatin became second runner-up.
The event demonstrated how multicultural celebrations can also provide a platform for education, responsibility and positive community engagement. More information is available in the full report on the Miss & Mrs Cross Continent event in Dublin.