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Beauties with purpose

  • Malawian ladies shine in 2019

Though the Miss Malawi beauty contest did not take place in the year 2019, the country still had a lot to celebrate about when it comes to beauty contests.

Kamkwamba: I felt like it was a dream

On September 7, the country witnessed the first ever Miss Albinism beauty contest at Bingu International Convention Centre (Bicc) in Lilongwe.

According to organisers, the event was meant to choose an ambassador highlighting the challenges faced by people with albinism and fighting for their rights.

So, after an entertaining and fun-filled competition, the judges made their choice and settled for Miss Chikondi Kanjadza, 23, as the country’s Miss Albinism-much to the satisfaction of the patrons at the event.

Kanjadza being crowned by First Lady

Crowned by First Lady Madame Gertrude Mutharika, Kanjadza became the first woman to ever wear the Miss Albinism Malawi crown.

Speaking during the event, United Nations resident coordinator Maria Torres said through the contest Malawians learnt that beauty is not only in the skin, but in the way that one sees oneself.

“This beauty contest reminds us that we may come in many colours but we are one person,” she said.

The newly-crowned queen has this to say: “I want to show Malawi and the world that there is beauty in persons with albinism. I also wanted to prove to them that the myths and misconceptions they have about persons with albinism are false,” she said.

And while Miss Albinism was reigning and making various appearances, another beauty Chimwemwe Kamkwamba was gearing up for the Miss Deaf Africa.

Kamkwamba, who has hearing challenges, was identified by the Malawi National Association for the Deaf (Manad) to represent the country at the continental showpiece.

So, on December 1, Kamkwamba was among the nine contestants gunning for the crown of Miss Deaf Africa.

After the judges had made their decision, it was Malawi’s Kamkwamba who came out tops.

“Oh, I felt like it was a dream. I just couldn’t believe it. It’s all praise to God for this honour,” she told The Nation in an interview.

Manad executive director Byson Chimenya said they were delighted with the news.

“It is great news to all of us. Her victory will put Malawi on the world map. We are happy that she has won.” Other countries that participated were Mozambique, Ethiopia, Namibia, Swaziland, Seychelles, Mauritius, Zimbabwe and La Reunion.

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