Miss Besieged Sarajevo.

May, 1993

Imela Nogic, 17, blonde and shrapnel scarred, embraces her runners up and smiles a flare bright smile. Although she has won, she is afraid her boyfriend will think her dirty for prancing in the swimsuit. Although she has won, she is afraid.

Imela Nogic, 17, would love to compete for Miss World, if only her boyfriend and her father would not object, if only she could leave her city of snipers and shells. She carries no flowers as she limps down the runway. She unveils a banner, "Don't Let Them Kill Us!"

Imela Nogic, 17, says, "Plans? I have no plans. I may not even be alive tomorrow." Behind her, judges sit with Uzis between their legs. They have no talent to decide in Sarajevo, no evening gown. There is no prize. The audience breaks into silence.