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WALES' Miss Universe hopeful Liza Lazarus may have lost out on the crown to a Venezuelan model who was once kidnapped in her homeland.

But the Swansea-born beauty, who lost her bags, dresses, portfolio and the coveted title in Vietnam last week, says the five- week trip has made her even more determined to succeed in the fashion business and put her good looks to good use.

The 20-year-old Miss UK representative is ambassador for The Joshua Foundation and will be working hard to promote the Welsh cause and celebrate the charity's 10th anniversary this year, now she's back on home turf.

"The whole experience was amazing - it opened my eyes to so many things," she said. "Out in Vietnam we got to see the whole culture - it made me want to do more for different charities.

"I'm going to be doing some fashion shows and charity work for the Joshua Foundation, especially as it's their anniversary.

"But for now, I'm going to stay home for a couple of weeks, then I'm off on holiday to Mexico with my mum, because she's done so much for me throughout the competition."

Lisa added: "It's been good fun - it's actually kind of sad coming home after five weeks away.

"You usually think there is a lot of bitchiness at these things, but it's actually like a family - you spend so much time together."

The former Miss Bikini Great Britain winner certainly had a few hiccups along the way.

"I lost my bags at the airport - I've still only got one of the two back - so my mum had to find me replacement dresses and she did really well," said Lisa.

"I did lose my portfolio, which was what I was really gutted about - I'll never be able to replace that. But hopefully I'll get a lot of work to build it back up again."

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