Diana Concepción Santana Mesa, representing AV San Isidro del Centenero, Onda Rural Tenerife, and Reformas Hokisona, is fearlessly running for the title of Queen of the Santa Cruz de Tenerife Carnival with the breathtaking fantasy “When Kilauea Roars” by RP Diseños. In this exclusive interview, she exudes confidence and contagious enthusiasm just days after the blackout of the DTT channels, maintaining focus on her goal like a true leader.
-How did you come to participate in this contest?
“I went through a casting process. I applied with RP Diseño and successfully passed a test among 84 other applicants.”
-Is this your first time participating?
“Yes, indeed, it is my debut.”
-Did you decide to participate all of a sudden or was it a long-standing ambition?
“Since I was young, I’ve harbored the desire to take part. The Carnival spirit runs deep in my veins and I see this as a fantastic opportunity.
-What are your most cherished Carnival memories?
“My fondest memories involve watching the murgas with my father since I was a child.”
-Do you have a favorite murga?
“It’s challenging to choose! Each murga has its own charm and appeal.”
-Carnival celebrations vary from one neighborhood to another, don’t they?
“Indeed. Unfortunately, there are no festivities in Tijoco.”
-Do you reside in Adeje?
“Yes, I live in the southern part of the island.”
-What keeps you occupied? Are you currently studying or working?
“I am currently pursuing my studies.”
-What are you studying?
“I am preparing for the National Police exams.”
-Ah! You are attending an academy, right?
“Yes, I am undergoing the preparation for these exams at an academy. It’s quite fascinating, really!”
-Where are you undertaking your preparations?
“In Los Cristianos. Once I finish here, I anticipate being dispatched to Ávila [the National Police School] for a tenure of ten months.”
-What influenced your decision to pursue this career path?
“It was quite unexpected [chuckles]. My father once remarked, ‘You have the physique of a police officer.’ Back in high school, I was uncertain about my professional prospects. Eventually, I toyed with the idea of becoming a police officer and intertwining it with criminology. I found myself captivated and fully engrossed in this pursuit.”
-Have you ever dressed up as a police officer?
“Not yet, but who knows, I might surprise everyone.
-If you win the crown, you will have limited time…
“Absolutely!”.
-Have you previously crossed paths with the designer Rayco Ramírez?
“I haven’t had the opportunity before. He’s truly charming!”
-Are you comfortable with your attire?
“I’ve had several fittings and adjustments.”
-Have you done this by stages?
“Yes, it’s been a gradual process.”
-A volcanic theme for your performance. It must be exhilarating and somewhat tricky to pronounce the name…
“Haha…The Kilauea. No worries! It’s a fantasy. The original inspiration hails from Hawaii.”
-What a relief!
“We are eagerly anticipating the whole experience.”
-Have you encountered other contestants in the past?
“I once participated as a jury member in Cabo Blanco [Arona] alongside Saida [Prieto]. That’s pretty much it.”
-Do you engage in friendly wagers while watching the gala events on TV?
“I occasionally make bets with my mother, who seems to have an uncanny knack for predictions.”
-The grand event is almost here…
“I haven’t had much time to dwell on nervousness. I’ve made a conscious effort to keep myself preoccupied.”
-To what extent do you feel supported by those close to you?
“My mother is ecstatic, even more so than me. My father is like an enthusiastic young boy. And my grandparents are beyond thrilled. With their unwavering support, I already feel like a winner.”
-After all this, do you envision a career in the fashion industry?
“The fashion world is not entirely foreign to me. I have dabbled in a few competitions and even had the honor of representing Spain in Mexico.”
-Impressive!
“Now, I hope that I won’t lose interest, at the very least.”
