Miss International 2016 Kylie Versoza was named Best Actress at the Distinctive International Arab Festivals Awards (DIAFA) 2022 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, on Sunday for the film “The Housemaid.”

DIAFA is a prestigious award-giving body in Dubai that recognizes outstanding individuals in the fields of arts, culture, and charity on an annual basis.

“It means the world to me. To be awarded here in Dubai feels like a dream come true and such an honor,” Versoza said in her acceptance speech.

“Today, I feel like winning another crown…and this time to (be) a best actress. Nothing ever beats the feeling of winning something for your own country because of your own hard work,” she added.

Many people were overjoyed when Versoza won the prestigious competition, which had previously been Arab-centric but has recently been opened up to other nationalities.

“It is very special so to say because it has always been the Arabs who are flourishing in the industry but we also have good Filipinos that have to be honored. It’s very important … especially in the UAE that they’re focusing on diversity, sustainability and of course the latter stage innovation,” said Glorianne Montefrio, founder of the 5G Project.

“We’re very very proud that we have an awardee for tonight all the way from the Philippines … best actress award … This is one of the best-known awards in Dubai and it’s very important that they are beginning to acknowledge the presence of the Filipinos, the talent of the Filipinos, and dynamism of the Filipinos,” added Hjayceelyn Quintana Philippine Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates.

“DIAFA will go worldwide. Because every year, they keep on improving. They start with Arab and now they start with different nationalities,” Sheikh Mohammed Al Shalan, a Saudi Arabian fashion icon, said

Versoza was overjoyed with his victory and dedicated it to overseas Filipino workers, particularly those in Dubai.

“Sobrang nakakataba ng puso na in-awardan ako dito sa Dubai kasi, there are around 5 million hardworking Filipinos in Dubai who have sacrificed their time, their efforts, their lives for their country, for their family so I dedicate this award to them,” Kylie stated.