Joheirry Mola Dominguez of the Dominican Republic was crowned Miss World 2026 on September 5 in Nha Trang, Vietnam, securing her country’s second victory in the international pageant.
Mola succeeds Thailand’s Opal Suchata Chuangsri and becomes the first Dominican woman to win Miss World in 44 years. Spain’s Elisabeth Reynés finished first runner-up, while Malaysia’s Taanusiya Chetty placed second runner-up.
Her road to the crown
Mola entered coronation night as one of the competition’s strongest performers. She won the Americas and Caribbean division of the Top Model Challenge, securing an automatic place in the Top 40.
She subsequently advanced through the Top 20 and Top 12 before joining the final six alongside the representatives of Eritrea, Malaysia, South Africa, Spain and host country Vietnam.
Mola was also recognized in the World Designer Award for presenting “The Queen of Gold,” a golden-silk creation inspired by Dominican culture and heritage.
An educator and communicator
Before becoming an international titleholder, Mola worked as an elementary-school teacher and developed a career in communications. She has appeared as a presenter for Univision, including during coverage connected with the Dominican Republic’s Premios Soberano.
Her advocacy centers on education and opportunities for children. Through her Voices of Tomorrow initiative, she promotes inclusion, confidence and stronger foundations for young people, particularly those in vulnerable circumstances.
Mola has also visited children’s homes and supported initiatives connected with UNICEF’s work in the Dominican Republic. That record of service closely reflects Miss World’s “Beauty With a Purpose” mission.
Second Miss World crown for the Dominican Republic
Mola’s victory ends a 44-year wait for the Caribbean nation. Mariasela Álvarez became the Dominican Republic’s first Miss World winner in 1982.
The final results were:
- Miss World 2026: Joheirry Mola Dominguez, Dominican Republic
- First runner-up: Elisabeth Reynés, Spain
- Second runner-up: Taanusiya Chetty, Malaysia
Eritrea, South Africa and Vietnam completed the Top 6. The Top 12 included Brazil, France, Nigeria, the Philippines, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Philippine representative Asia Rose Simpson concluded her campaign in the Top 12 after winning the Asia and Oceania division of the Head-to-Head Challenge.
A new chapter begins
Mola now assumes the responsibility of representing Miss World internationally and advancing its humanitarian programs throughout her reign.
Her combination of competitive strength, communications experience and sustained work with children carried her from the Dominican national title to the Miss World crown—and returned her country to the top of the pageant after more than four decades.