Bournemouth’s Neelam Kumari has her eyes on the Spectacle Wearer of the Year (SWOTY) prize after weight loss of seven stone gave her the confidence to enter the competition.
As south-east regional winner in the 36-44 age category Kumari goes forward to the next round of judging that could see her become the overall SWOTY 2017 winner and collect £10,000 at a ceremony at London’s 8 Northumberland Avenue on October 10.
Prior to her weight loss, Kumari said she hated having her photograph taken and would have only dreamed of entering the competition. ‘I really lacked confidence before my weight loss and never would have thought of applying to be Spectacle Wearer of the Year if it wasn’t for my best friend.
‘We entered the competition together online and I didn’t give it a second thought until I received the call telling me I was a regional finalist. I am still stunned and thrilled by the news.’
Kumari started wearing glasses two years ago and says she has recently changed her frame style to suit her new face shape.