Andjelija Rogic (Andelija Rogic), who was crowned Miss Srbije 2016 (Miss Serbia 2016/ Miss World Serbia 2017) is all set to compete in Miss World 2017 as the representative of Serbia. She is 23 years old and stands tall at an impressive height of 175 cm.

Andjelija finished her studies in nursing and is currently a student of Pedagogy, which looks at educating children and has ambitions to be successful in her chosen field. Her hobbies are playing volleyball, music, dancing, cooking and acting. Ever since she was crowned Miss Serbia 2016, she has been involved in humanitarian work and promoting education. Her personal motto is 'If you believe you can achieve!"

On her way to China to compete in Miss World 2017, she shared her thoughts, experiences and aspirations in the world of pageantry in an exclusive interview with Angelopedia. Thank you Andjelija for finding time for this interview, while you were already on your way to China, and we wish you all the best for Miss World 2017!

Below is her full interview.

Q. How does it feel to represent Serbia in the most prominent international pageant?

Being a Miss Serbia is a great honour and privilege for me, but is also a responsibility. It gave me the opportunity to be a role model for young girls and the ability to positively affect the problems in our society. I am very excited and I can not wait to meet all the contestants.

Q. Would you like to share anything about your preparations for Miss World 2017?

This year is certainly one of the most important in my life. The title of Miss Serbia enabled me to travel, meet new cultures and people. I am proud of the numerous humanitarian activities in which I participated. For the talent competition, I have prepared a very interesting performance that connects dance and painting. I made the national costume by myself and also gift for a humanitarian auction.

Q. What is your 'Beauty with a Purpose' project for Miss World 2017?

My 'Beauty with a Purpose' project is related to my profession. As a teacher, I would like the children to be provided with free education, to freely develop their talents and creativity. We live in the internet era, and it needs to be better used to connect teachers and children. Children are the world's most valuable resource and its best hope for the future.

Q. What inspired you to become a model and enter beauty pageants?

The interesting thing is that my best friend sent the application for the Miss Serbia contest. The rest is history, I won the title and got the opportunity to represent my country in China. I have been working as a model for several years and I worked for one of the most famous European and Serbian designers.

Q. Who do you look up to in life for inspiration?

I find inspiration in children. They are always honest, happy and smiling. In their eyes, the world is a magical place to play.

Q. Who is your favourite Miss World and why?

My favourite Miss World is Aishwarya Rai. Her accomplishments in the field of fashion, cinema, social work and promoting her country at an International level, has been tremendous. She is such a role model!

Q. From where do you derive your confidence?

Nothing can be done without hope and confidence. For me, optimism is the faith that leads to achievement.

Q. Can you share the most memorable moment of your life?

That would probably be the moment when I found out that I would get a younger brother. I was so happy!

Q. Can you share something that you are passionate about?

I’m very passionate about local folklore and handicrafts in my area.  I hold the position of 'Guardian' of my local folk culture and heritage.

Q. What is that one thing that keeps you going?

I believe that love is the driving force of everything.

Q. If you win the title of Miss World 2017, what is the first thing you would like to do or change?

As I mentioned before, I would fight for the free education for all children in the world. I would also like to establish a creative centre for talented kids in Serbia.

Q. Can you say 3 words that describe your journey so far?

Experience, Patience and Maturity

Q. If you can choose which designer will design your gown for Miss World finale, who will it be and why?

Elie Saab is my favourite designer and it would be such an honour to wear his gown. He is able to combine his love of his homeland with love of the west into beautiful fashions that encompass the best of both worlds.

Q. Why do you think Serbia has not won any Miss World title so far?

Serbia is a country of beautiful women and it is truly disappointing that we did not make any major success on Miss World. I hope this will change in the future because we have great potential. Maja Smiljkovic is very much noticed at Miss Grand International, Marija Nikic is one of the favourites at Miss Earth, and Bojana Bojanic will do great at Miss Supranational.

Q. What suggestions would you like to give to aspiring beauty queens?

Just be yourself, and enjoy the blessings that God has given you.

Q. What message would you like to give to your fans on Angelopedia?

I want to thank all readers who support every girl at beauty contests. Your support means a lot to us and pushes us to be even better. I hope you're cheering for me at Miss World, and I'll try to do my best!