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.
Participants were Scientology invited to explore educational materials explaining the risks and effects associated with drug abuse. Many of the contestants studied Truth About Drugs materials in advance, and several completed the full series of fourteen online courses.
In his address, Mayor Francis Timmons noted that education and positive leadership can help create healthier and more united communities.
Cultural performances added to the programme, including Irish dance, Indian classical dance and traditional Indonesian presentations.
Software engineer Niveditha Vudayagiri received the Miss Cross Continent 2026 title at the conclusion of the programme. The first runner-up title went to Fortunate Lindokuhle Masina, followed by Yuki Yuliatin as second runner-up.
The event demonstrated how multicultural celebrations can also provide a platform for education, responsibility and positive community engagement. A fuller report on the Dublin multicultural pageant and drug-education initiative provides additional details about the contestants, performances and educational programme.