Beauty pageant held for inmates in Brazil

Women serving time at a prison in Rio de Janeiro swapped their uniforms for gowns on Wednesday as they took part in a beauty pageant.

After having their hair and makeup done, 10 pre-selected inmates from the Talavera Bruce detention facility walked down a red carpet in two different outfits and were judged for their beauty, sympathy and attitude.

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In the audience, the prison’s 440 other inmates and relatives applauded the participants with smiles from ear to ear.

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The event aims to improve the women’s self-esteem and is an opportunity to unite them with their family members whom they seldom see.

“During this moment, I don’t feel like I am in jail,” said Michelle Rangel who is serving time for drug trafficking and was elected last year’s winner.

“My soul is free.”