Pictured, Leonora Cavalcante from Rio de Janeiroįor years Brazil has been seen as the land of the fit and toned beach body. Life: The finalists represent a healthy cross-section of the country's society, with housewives, civil engineers, doctors, lawyers and nutritionists entering the competition. An online audience will vote later this month for their favourite to win the internet's tubbiest title. There is also an online competition where entrants, who don't have the courage to participate in the live shows, can submit their picture to the official competition website.

The Most Beautiful Fat Girl pageant is divided into two categories of 18 to 35-year-olds and 36 to 55-year-olds with candidates, who won the qualifying heats in their region, representing 20 of the 27 states in Brazil. It's always good to remember there are many people who appreciate big girls,' she said, adding that she frequently gives morale-boosting body-confidence pep talks to help women conquer self-loathing.

'I take it as a compliment and thank people when they call me fat. 'It's a nerve-wracking experience which is all about getting the girls to face up to their biggest fears and helping them deal with the embarrassment of showing off their ample figures,' explained Ms Ferreira who says every day she faces fatphobia with a positive response. Positive: The organisers of the competition say it is about making the girls face up to their fears, and show them that it is a positive step to show off their bodies for an audience.

Milian aquarelo