The "Miss World" contest has been held since 1951, and representatives of the Soviet Union have never participated. However, among Russian women, there are holders of this prestigious title. The first of our compatriots was Tatiana Vladimirovna Verstak, a descendant of white émigrés. Her parents moved from China to Australia after the Maoists came to power. Initially, it was difficult for her: she spoke English poorly, and her classmates mocked her accent. But thanks to perseverance and tutoring, Tanya was able to fit into Australian society. Even then, many noted her beauty, wit, and excellent figure, as well as her passion for tennis.

After school, Tatiana worked as a promoter for olive oil sales. At one of the presentations, she was invited to audition for the "Miss Australia-1961" contest. However, raised in strict traditions, she decided to ask her parents for permission first. Fortunately, they were not against it, and Verstak made it to the finals. In those years, the contest looked different: there was no swimsuit parade, only in sportswear, and besides beauty, intelligence, improvisation, and a sense of humor were strictly evaluated. Our compatriot proved to be stronger than the rest.

After her victory, Tatiana began preparing for the more serious "Miss World" contest. The competition was very high, but even in America, the Russian émigré captivated the audience, the jury, and her rivals. Miss England, Sue Burgess, noted: "I think she deserved it. She is very sweet, sincere, kind-hearted, and not vain." Upon returning to Australia, Verstak engaged in charity work, helping people with disabilities and donating money to children's funds. Later, she became interested in photography and opened her own photo studio, and now she is enjoying a well-deserved retirement.