In this year’s Miss Global competition, the Czech Republic was represented by an inspiring contestant who became a voice for natural beauty and self-confidence. Jana Marvanová, who made it into the top 12, earned immense support from viewers and won the People’s Choice award. Her story is filled with determination, overcoming obstacles, and a desire to help others. In this interview, Jana shared more about her experiences, values, and future plans.
What were your first feelings when you decided to participate in the Miss Global competition?
Participating in Miss Global was a dream I had been working on for three years. I had previously been part of world competitions, which I viewed as opportunities to gain work experience. When I received a message that they were interested in the Czech Republic, I knew it was my chance. I was born on January 11th, and the fact that I participated in the 11th edition felt like fate. I found balance in my life, I am satisfied with my appearance, and I have matured to the point where I can truly change something, help others, and touch people’s lives through competitions. However, I couldn’t have done it alone; I have an amazing family, a strong partner in TAYLLORCOX, the best life partner, and my national director Aleš Pilný, as well as support from many designers like Hanell (the dress on the cover) and Debbie Brown. A strong driving force were also the people I met during the competition, both in person and online, and I thank them all for their incredible support.
What was the process of preparing for the competition like?
The preparations are demanding because you need to be both physically and mentally fit, plus you have to bring a lot of things, such as the national costume created by Lukáš Holešek, train for the catwalk, and many other things. Honestly, I enjoyed everything. However, I was saddened to see how many girls underwent plastic surgery just before the competition, and I ask that we stop this together. I believe that plastic surgery primarily serves to heal; I support increasing self-esteem, but not just to make someone more beautiful for no reason – we are already beautiful.
What did winning the People’s Choice award mean to you?
I honestly cried when I received the People’s Choice award. It is an enormous honor and responsibility for me. It was a great privilege to touch the hearts of the viewers, meet them, hug them, hear them, and potentially help them. I want to continue being there for people.
What were the biggest challenges during the competition?
Honestly, there was little sleep, nonstop high heels, food at irregular hours, and psychological pressure – it is more demanding than one might think, but every day you have to get up with determination and put everything behind you each night. Meditation and prayers of gratitude helped me.
What message would you like to convey to young girls who dream of participating in beauty competitions?
I definitely want to tell them that they can achieve it and that they have what it takes! I represented a different kind of beauty than what everyone is used to in beauty competitions – I am not the tallest, I have curves, short hair, and I managed to represent us all the way to the top 12. For me, that is a success. At the same time, be prepared for a lot of hard work; you can’t do it without it.
What are your plans for the future after this experience?
My plans are to share my experiences, definitely not to give up, to prepare for another competition, and I hope to focus more on charitable events because I want to give back my blessings. I miss my family, so I want to spend time with them and be the best aunt, work even more with TAYLLORCOX, and maintain my balance, health, and happiness.
What is your opinion on traditional beauty standards?
As I mentioned, I believe it is time to adjust these standards. I believe that girls who have beauty in their hearts should be given a chance. A good and pure heart is the most important thing. There are girls who really work hard and deserve the results, and they are not just dressed up. I like healthy beauty and hope that height, weight, and age will no longer be deciding factors. From some competitors, I have faced negativity, but I truly believe that sometimes a smaller model can create a bigger show on the runway than a taller one – for me, it’s about personality and uniqueness.
Jana Marvanová has become an inspiration to many, and her story shows that true beauty lies in the personality and uniqueness of each individual. Her journey at Miss Global is just the beginning, and we look forward to what else she will bring. With her determination and goal to help others, she has a bright and exciting future ahead.
