Former Miss World Trinidad and Tobago second runner-up Vinita Manoo has been appointed Miss Universe Trinidad and Tobago 2026, putting the 36-year-old communications and international relations professional on course to represent the country at the 75th Miss Universe competition in Puerto Rico in November.
The Miss Trinidad and Tobago franchise announced Manoo’s appointment on Wednesday, September 16. She is scheduled to travel to San Juan for the international competition at the José Miguel Agrelot Coliseum, where the 75th edition of Miss Universe will be staged. The Miss Universe Organization has confirmed Puerto Rico as host of the anniversary edition, with the final scheduled for November 24.
Manoo, who stands 5 feet 7 inches, was born and raised in San Juan, Trinidad. Her professional experience spans international relations, communications and public relations, including work across Europe and Latin America.
She is fluent in English, Spanish and Portuguese and is a recipient of a national science scholarship.
Manoo previously worked in communications at the Office of the Prime Minister, where she was involved in national and international projects involving diplomats, international organisations and global conferences. She subsequently earned a master’s degree in communications and public relations through an inter-campus programme linking Scotland and Barcelona.
According to TTT News, her academic and professional background includes studies in foreign languages and international relations, as well as international experience in Colombia, France and elsewhere in Europe and Latin America.
From Miss World to Miss Universe
Manoo is no stranger to the pageant stage.
She competed in the Miss World Trinidad and Tobago 2015 competition, where she finished as second runner-up. She also won the Beauty with a Purpose segment. Kimberly Farrah Singh ultimately won the national title and went on to represent Trinidad and Tobago at Miss World. Contemporary coverage of the 2015 competition identified Manoo as one of the finalists.
Her return to national pageantry has generated discussion on social media following the announcement.
While many comments congratulated Manoo and praised her appearance and credentials, others questioned the decision to appoint a former pageant contestant and raised concerns about her age. The Miss Universe franchise has not indicated that her age or previous pageant participation prevents her from representing Trinidad and Tobago.
Her selection also comes as Miss Universe itself marks a major milestone. The 2026 competition will celebrate the pageant’s 75th anniversary, with contestants from more than 130 countries and territories expected to participate.
Reality Series to Document Journey
Manoo’s preparation for the international competition will also become the subject of an original reality series being produced by Stolen Productions Ltd, which is managing Trinidad and Tobago’s 2026 pageant production.
The production is intended to document her preparations while showcasing aspects of Trinidad and Tobago’s fashion, culture, tourism and entertainment industries. TTT News said the series will provide behind-the-scenes access to Manoo’s preparation and journey to the international stage.
A notable part of Manoo’s background is her volunteer work in Colombia, where she taught English to underprivileged children.
Her selection also connects with Trinidad and Tobago’s history at Miss Universe. The country produced its first Miss Universe winner in Janelle Commissiong in 1977, who became the first Black woman to win the international title. Wendy Fitzwilliam became Trinidad and Tobago’s second Miss Universe in 1998.
As she prepares for November’s competition, Manoo has described her return to the spotlight as a new chapter. Her official profile carries the message:
“There is no expiry date on becoming who you were meant to be.”
The 75th Miss Universe final will take place on November 24, 2026, at the José Miguel Agrelot Coliseum in San Juan.
