The third edition of the Miss Decency Africa beauty pageant has been concluded in grand style, leaving an indelible mark on Africa’s pageantry landscape. The event, themed “Beauty in Essence ‘ brought together young women from across the continent to showcase confidence, modesty, and elegance while challenging traditional beauty standards.
The pageant featured winners across two categories. In the Little Miss category, Princess Adenowo from South Africa emerged as the overall winner, followed by Miss Kenya as the first runner-up. Princess Adenowo expressed gratitude, sharing her journey as a first-time pageant winner after four attempts. She said, “I joined this event to make my mum, an ex-model, proud. My message to others is to put God first, believe in themselves, and embrace decency. You don’t have to be naked to be beautiful.”
In the senior category, Miss Kenya emerged Miss Culture while Miss Ghana took the crown as Miss Decency Africa World 2024, with Miss Egypt emerging as the first runner-up. Other winners included South Africa as Miss Decency Africa Top Model, Miss Gambia as Miss Decency Africa Tourism and Miss Kenya as Miss Decency Africa Culture
The event’s convener, Pastor Joychris Onyejiuwa, shared the vision behind the pageant, which started in 2021 but missed a year due to inadequate preparations.
“I was motivated by the need to uplift the girl child,” she explained. “I want young girls to feel beautiful inwardly and outwardly, without societal pressure.
This pageant celebrates beauty from the inside out.”
Despite challenges in securing sponsorship, Pastor Joychris expressed gratitude to individuals and organizations like Mandate School,
Almondsprings Schools and other sponsors:
Hove Organics,
Diaphine secrets
Annora skin care
Ije wild growth
GoldenBird world
Lucient Print
Mobbies
Kot wears
Enipenny concept hairs
Peaceful Emporium
bags
LYAP Schools, and Oral Beauty for their support. “Sponsorship remains a challenge because many people categorize events based on social media presence,” she noted. “However, we are optimistic about more corporate sponsorship next year.”
The host of the event, Reverend Chris-Udo Onyejiuwa, highlighted the pageant’s unique vision in his opening remarks.
“Our goal is to see godly and Christian pageantry thrive in this industry. We aim to crown decent and elegant queens, inspired by the biblical Queen Esther, who embodies beauty, godliness, and modesty,” he said.
Participants reflected on the event’s impact. First-time contestant Mirabel shared her excitement, saying, “I am happy to have a crown. To everyone out there, keep believing in yourself and keep up the good work.” Badejoko Teniola, a 22-year-old contestant, appreciated the pageant’s emphasis on modesty.
“Many pageants don’t prioritize decency, but this one stands out. Aspiring beauty queens should never give up and always push forward,” she said.
Princess Adenowo, the overall winner in the Little Miss category, offered a heartfelt message; “This has been an incredible journey. I encourage everyone to put God first, stay decent, and believe in themselves.”
The judging panel included industry professionals like Fasasi Zainab, CEO of Zee Palace Makeover, who emphasized fairness in scoring.
“There’s no partiality here. We judge based on confidence, traditional outfits, and effort,” she explained. Odion Gift Precious, an influencer and judge, encouraged aspiring models to persist despite challenges. “If you have a dream, go for it. Start somewhere, keep going, and embrace a competitive spirit,” she said.
The pageant’s broader purpose was celebrated by its hosts and organizers. Dunni, the event host, shared how hosting aligned with her academic goals as a Mass Communication student. “Beauty is confidence, elegance, and modesty. Hosting this event has been an amazing experience,” she said.
The event’s MC, Pius Paul, highlighted its societal message: “Decency goes beyond appearance. It’s about attitude, intellect, and values. This event proves you can be celebrated while remaining modest.”
As the 2024 edition wrapped up, Pastor Joychris extended an open invitation for more participants and sponsors, emphasizing the pageant’s potential to transform lives. “This platform offers recognition, opportunities for ambassadorships, and life-changing experiences,” she said.
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