Irish model reaches top five in international pageant final in Egypt

Sunday World

2 days ago

Kristine Subrovska was the recent first-ever winner of Ireland's Next Top Model
IRELAND'S Kristine Subrovska is celebrating coming in the top five of the Top Model of the World pageant in Egypt.
Dubliner Kristine, who was born in Latvia but grew up in Citywest from the age of seven, was flying the flag for Ireland among 30 countries competing for the top prize last night in Hurghada.
Kristine was the recent first-ever winner of Ireland's Next Top Model, and soared past hundreds of global contestants to achieve the highest placement ever for an Irish representative since the pageant's launch in over three decades.
'Egypt was an unforgettable experience and an incredible honour to represent my country to a sold out arena' Kristine said.
The televised pageant was won by Miss Colombia.
Kristine has quickly emerged as a voice for children's rights, advocacy, and change.
Kristine Subrovska in Egypt
News in 90 Seconds - May 31st
Since winning the Irish title, Kristine has worked closely with Fashion House Ireland in preparation for Dublin Fashion Week, playing a hands-on role in shaping the future of Irish designers.
Her work includes motivational podcasts that give aspiring creatives and unheard voices a chance to be heard.
In recent times, Tusla, Ireland's Child and Family Agency, has come under increasing scrutiny due to issues in staffing, resourcing, and service delivery, especially in the areas of child protection and welfare.
HIQA inspections have uncovered deeply concerning gaps in some regions, large numbers of vulnerable children were left without assigned social workers, and many were not assessed or safeguarded in time.
Having learned of these reports, Kristine felt compelled to act.
'This isn't just about statistics it's about real children, real lives,' Kristine said.
'No child in Ireland should ever be left without care, without protection, or placed in unsafe situations. If I can use my platform to amplify this crisis and help create change, then I will not stay silent.'
Determined to make a difference, Kristine is now actively collaborating with charities, child welfare advocates, and policymakers to push for reform and bring greater visibility to these critical issues.
'What matters most is what I do with this platform now. I'm committed to helping our youth, standing up for vulnerable children, and showing that Irish models can stand for more than beauty—we can stand for change.'
She admits it was difficult leaving Latvia and everything she knew behind at such a tender age.
'It was tough,' she confirms. 'But it made me stronger. It taught me that no matter what happens, I can rise.'
With a degree in Business and Law and a powerful presence in the charity world, Kristine uses her opportunity to uplift, inspire, and give back.
From working with Dean Ryan on youth-focused events to championing causes like the DSPCA and the Irish Cancer Society, her passion is matched only by her compassion — especially after her own mother's battle with cancer.
Earlier this year she had her crowning moment the iconic George Bar in Dublin.
The venue was packed with energy as the colourful drag queens Davina Devine and dazzling Dolly Grip joined the festivities.
The crown was officially placed on Cormac Branagan of Tallafornia fame.
'This is more than fashion,' Kristine says. 'It's about proving to every girl who's ever felt small that she's powerful beyond measure. I want them to see me and say — if she can, so can I.'
With Kristine returning home to Dublin, anticipation for Ireland's Next Top Model 2026 is already reaching new heights.
Applications are flooding in from across the country, and pageant director Micheal Martin Byrne has confirmed a structured competition in regional heats nationwide, leading to a glamorous grand finale in Dublin.