All finalists of the Ms SEA Games Ambassador competition are looking forward to introducing the country's history, culture, people, lifestyle and tourist attractions to visitors during the 25th SEA Games, which will take place from December 9-18 in Vientiane
The SEA Games Organising Committee initially chose 100 Ms SEA Games ambassadors to take part in the games.
A shortlist of 30 young ladies has already been selected by the committee to receive special coaching from September 15 to 30 before a decision on the final group is made.
Eleven ladies will have the important role of leading teams of athletes from each country into the stadium during the opening and closing ceremonies.
Others will assist the committee during medal presentations and serving VIP guests.
The Vientiane Times spoke to two ladies on the shortlist.
Both of them are experienced in social-entertainment activities and are now working as public relations and marketing staff at the Novotel Hotel in Vientiane .
Ms Kesone Phachansily, 24, is a sales executive with the hotel and said she is very honoured to have an opportunity to work with the organising committee as a Ms SEA Games ambassador.
“It is a great honour for our country to host the SEA Games and it is also a good chance to promote our country to the world,” said Ms Kesone, who also speaks English and Vietnamese.
“During the games, when I meet with visitors from other countries I will tell them about Lao culture and history and also talk about some of our popular tourist attractions,” she said.
Ms Kesone lives in Thongkhankham village, Chanthabouly district in Vientiane and has three younger brothers and sisters.
Another on the shortlist is 23-year old Ms Malaithip Singsahanath from Dongdok village, Xaythany district of Vientiane. She works in the public relations department at the Novotel Hotel.
Ms Malaithip has one sister and a young brother. She used to play badminton and volleyball and go swimming with them, but now her time is very limited due to work and study commitments. However, she still tries to make time to play some sport, especially badminton.
“I was very surprised when I was named in the Ms SEA Games shortlist, but I think my chances of making the final eleven are only 50-50 because everyone on the list is very talented and knowledgeable,” Ms Malaithip said.
“Hosting the SEA Games is a great honour for Laos and I am confident that our country will have many successes,” she said.
Both Ms Kesone and Ms Malaithip are also experienced models at fashion shows in other official ceremonies.
The games will involve athletes from the 11 nations of Laos , Vietnam , Cambodia , Brunei , Thailand , Malaysia , Indonesia , Myanmar , Philippines , Singapore , and Timor Leste.
The games aim to promote friendship, solidarity and understanding between countries in the region, while promoting sport and providing an opportunity for athletes to compete in order to improve their performances at the Asian Games and Olympic Games.
By Sisay Vilaysack
Vientianetimes
