A doctor who looked after patients during the pandemic had the prescription for success after she was crowned this year’s Miss Ireland.
Ivanna McMahon left judges mesmerised on Saturday when she played the harp, performing a rendition of Cosmic Love by Florence + the Machine.
She wowed the panel at the 75th year of the pageant, which took place at the Royal Theatre in Castlebar, Co Mayo.
Ivanna, 27, studied medicine at University College Cork and graduated in 2020.
She worked in the GP Scheme at Tralee General Hospital throughout the pandemic and is now taking a year out.
The Clare native said: "I am truly on cloud nine and so grateful to be your Miss Ireland 2022.
"I am so incredibly happy and grateful to have been crowned the 75th Miss Ireland last night.
"It is an honour to be chosen to represent @missirelandorg at @missworld, I am so incredibly excited and looking forward to continuing this amazing experience at Miss World.”
Ivanna said she made “friends for life” at the competition.
She added: "A massive thank you to all the other amazing Miss Ireland 2022 contestants.
"I know I have made friends for life. I’m so proud of us all and what we have achieved over the last few months, especially all the amazing fundraising we have done for @varietyirl and our various chosen charities.
"Thank you all so much for your support and congratulations last night I was truly overwhelmed and touched by all your well wishes.
"Thank you so much to all my family and friends who have been amazing. I couldn’t have done it without you all."
She also paid tribute to her predecessor Pamela Uba, a scientist born in South Africa who made history in 2021 by becoming the first black Miss Ireland, as an "amazing role model and inspiration”.
Ivanna added: "I have big shoes to fill and will wear the crown with pride."
The 37 finalists were put through their paces in a challenging competitive process over the last three months.
Their skills in debating, public speaking, talent, sports, modelling and social media were tested.
Each was tasked with raising awareness and funds for their chosen charities.
The theme this year for Miss Ireland, sponsored by TanOrganic, was Our World Our Future with a focus on the environment and global citizenship.
To date, the Miss Ireland franchise has raised more than €350,000 for charities including LauraLynn, Temple Street and Pieta House.
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