A FORMER North-East student is in the running to scoop a global title and become Miss World thanks to the inspiration she found while studying in the UK.

The region has inspired an international beauty queen, Annora Bourgeault, to challenge for Miss World after studying at the University of Sunderland and experiencing cultures from across the world.

The former student - the winner of Miss World Canada - is focusing on multi-culturalism in her attempts to win the title in December in London.

The 21-year-old will be hoping to beat off 126 contestants and wow the judges with her talent and beauty.

She has already been successful in representing her country after succeeding in beating more than 40 contestants from Canada earlier this year.

During the talent show Annora will speak to the packed audience and judges about multiculturalism after spending time living and studying in Sunderland in 2012/13.

She said: “It was during my time attending the University of Sunderland that I began to truly appreciate the importance of this community ideal.

“During my time in Sunderland I grew to know people of many backgrounds. Some were from Sunderland itself, some from Germany, Spain, America, China, and many more countries.

“As I surrounded myself with these people of varied backgrounds a dialogue among friends was created rich with varying opinions, stories, and viewpoints.

“Multicultural ideals create a stronger nation and allow each individual and cultural background to be heard and considered.

“The Miss World 2014 pageant provides an opportunity for the message to spread throughout the world.”

Annora studied during at the University of Sunderland as part of a study abroad programme between University of Regina and the University of Sunderland.

More information can be found here: http://www.sunderland.ac.uk/international/study-abroad-exchange/