Putu Meilly Herlina, a 2021 Law student from Universitas Pelita Harapan (UPH) Surabaya Campus, has once again brought pride to Indonesia on the international stage. Meilly, as she is fondly called, achieved a remarkable feat at the prestigious Miss Eco Teen International 2024 competition held in Egypt. She was crowned 1st Runner-Up and also won the coveted Best Eco Dress award, solidifying her position as a global advocate for sustainability.

This achievement is a source of immense pride for UPH Surabaya Campus and highlights the university’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals. Through her dedication and passion, Meilly proved that Indonesian students, particularly from UPH, can excel on the global stage in both academic and non-academic fields. Her success underscores the potential of young Indonesians to lead in beauty pageants that emphasize environmental advocacy. Other top winners in the competition hailed from Canada, Serbia, the Philippines, and China, showcasing the high level of competition.

Meilly’s Best Eco Dress award was for her stunning gown crafted from hundreds of recycled straws, forks, and other upcycled materials. The design was not only visually striking but also carried a profound message about sustainability and environmental protection. Her creative approach showcased the importance of repurposing waste into something beautiful and meaningful, drawing attention to the critical need for environmental conservation. The dress captivated the judges and became a highlight of the competition.

Expressing her gratitude, Meilly shared, “I am deeply thankful for the opportunity to represent Indonesia on the international stage and to raise awareness about environmental issues that are crucial for our future. This achievement is dedicated to my country, my family, my mentors, and UPH, who have always supported me.”

She added that participating in Miss Eco Teen International allowed her to combine her passion for environmental advocacy with the world of beauty pageants, demonstrating that these platforms can drive meaningful change.

With her success at Miss Eco Teen International 2024, Putu Meilly Herlina has proven that dedication and environmental consciousness can manifest in many forms, including through beauty pageants. Her accomplishments are a testament to the power of combining creativity, advocacy, and determination to inspire change.

Meilly’s achievements are expected to motivate young people to take an active role in environmental preservation and contribute to a better future for the planet. As a proud representative of UPH and Indonesia, she has not only elevated the university’s reputation but also set an example for others to follow in championing sustainability and excellence on the global stage.