For our December cover story, we reflect on the impact of the Miss Uganda pageant on our cultural zeitgeist through the eyes and experiences of previous crown holders. Since 1967, the pageant has been a fixture on Kampala’s social scene, with winners going on to blossom into cultural icons, trailblazing in fields as diverse as entertainment, philanthropy, business, and politics.
The first Miss Uganda was crowned in 1967, with Rosemary Salmon earning the honor and later representing the country at Miss World in London. Since then, the pageant has been on a mission to find the standout woman who can represent Uganda to the world. The title comes with numerous perks, including a car, instant fame, and opportunities for travel. Synonymous with beauty, it also confers the unofficial title of the “Most Beautiful Woman in Uganda.”
But beyond the glamour, the title carries significant responsibilities. Miss Uganda winners carry the responsibility of representing the country on global platforms such as Miss World, representing the organization’s values, participating in charitable activities, and inspiring others through advocacy and presence. Yet, what else lies behind the institution? We’ve heard whispers about the inner workings, but we’re more curious about the lasting impact the pageant has had on its winners. How different is the experience today compared to years past?
To find out, we brought together a group of former title holders —some dating as far back as 13 years ago—to hear their stories firsthand. Through their journeys, these women have not only redefined beauty standards but also championed causes close to their hearts, shaping conversations about identity, empowerment, and societal change. We delve into their personal stories—triumphs, challenges, and the legacy they continue to build.
Sylvia Wilson Alibhai – Miss Uganda 2011
Sylvia Wilson Alibhai, Miss Uganda 2011, carries herself with a poised confidence that comes from years of navigating both the glamorous and challenging aspects of life in the public eye. When asked about her life beyond the pageant world, Sylvia describes her current pursuits with precision. “I work with my husband at Talent Africa Group, where I handle strategic management,” she says. “I also have a private consultancy, though I don’t talk about it publicly. My clients are specific—about 10 to 12—and I work with very private people, so I don’t need to do much marketing or advertising.”
Reflecting on her Miss Uganda journey, Sylvia recalls the nerve-wracking process leading up to the crowning night as one of her most memorable moments. “The competition is tough—two months of eliminations and intense activities,” she shares. “But to stand out and come out on top during the finale was unforgettable.”
For Sylvia, Miss Uganda is more than a title. “To me, it means service to the people. It’s about being a role model to young women and society without losing your identity,” she says. She’s quick to debunk the misconception that the role is purely about beauty. “It comes from a heart of service. It’s not just about being beautiful or showing off; it’s about making a difference.”
Her legacy, she hopes, is one of inspiration. “I want young people to see the opportunities Miss Uganda offers. The platform built me—it gave me a name and the foundation for everything I have today. From 2011, when I was fresh out of school, to now, it’s been an incredible journey. I’ve built my brand, my businesses, and my lifestyle on that foundation. If anyone knows me, they know I live a high-end lifestyle. I have my money, my family, my husband. I party hard, and I work hard. I’m a wife, a mother, and a businessperson—I have it all.”
Sylvia prides herself on living a balanced life. “Some people don’t understand how I do it—how I’m a mother and still hang out, pop bottles, and sometimes twerk,” she laughs. “But life isn’t black and white. I strike a balance. I’m not too good, and I’m not too bad—I’m right in the middle.” She credits this perspective to living by her own rules. “As long as I’m a good person, I follow my own rules. Growing up, people said I was stubborn or big-headed, but I don’t let others define me.”
Looking back, Sylvia wishes she had been better prepared for the media scrutiny that comes with the title. “I didn’t know how to handle trolls and haters. You can never be beautiful enough, intelligent enough, or humble enough for everyone. I had to develop a thick skin and learn not to invest my emotions into what people said.”
Despite the challenges, Sylvia believes the Miss Uganda platform is invaluable. “It offers young women the chance to build careers, launch businesses, or make a difference through community service. When I won, I had the media’s attention for a year, and I used that to shape my brand and expand my work, including a foundation I started before Miss Uganda.”
The experience also brought personal joys, including meeting her husband. “He was in the crowd cheering me on the night I was crowned,” she reveals. “We had met briefly before, but it’s funny how things come full circle.”
While she acknowledges the high expectations placed on beauty queens, she encourages others to embrace the platform. “Miss Uganda gave me the foundation to meet influential people, grow my social network, and build the life I have today. It’s not without challenges, but if you maximize the opportunity, it can change your life.”
Phiona Bizzu – Miss Uganda 2012
Phiona Bizzu reflects on her remarkable journey with nothing but gratitude. “My heart is full,” she gushes. As the current President of the Academy of Queens, a community of former Miss Uganda titleholders, she continues to make an impact in diverse spheres. “I didn’t start the community,” she shares, “but I’m proud to be part of it, especially now that we’ve also been acquired by Kezzi Entertainment, the franchise holders of Miss World Uganda.”
Outside the pageant world, she is deeply involved in empowering communities. “I work with UNICEF in a role that’s really close to my heart – we guide young people and communities to be innovative, come up with solutions, and sustain themselves in the long run. Additionally, I train trainers and work with the International Labour Organization on programs like Start and Improve Your Business, helping entrepreneurs grow their ventures,” she says.
Her work extends to beauty consultancy, although she humbly downplays the title. “I wouldn’t call myself a beauty consultant per se,” she clarifies. “But I do a bit of that on the side. I like to keep busy and acquire new skills whenever I can.”
Phiona’s reign as Miss Uganda remains a cherished memory. “I’ll always be proud of being the Miss Uganda who represented the country when we celebrated 50 years of independence,” she says. “There’s even a special coin for it—such a milestone. But what stands out for me are the moments when young people share how my work has impacted their lives. Those are the moments that motivate me not to give up.”
Balancing the role with her studies was challenging. “I had school at 8 AM, but I’d often get home from Miss Uganda events at 2 or 3 AM. Coming from a strong Christian background, I also had to work hard to make my family understand that the role wasn’t all about partying— but creating opportunities.”
She recalls the backlash she faced after winning. “People said I didn’t deserve the crown. But I’ve learned I’m stronger than I thought. I didn’t retaliate or attack anyone on social media. Instead, I focused on my work. It taught me patience, humility, and how to prioritize myself.”
Her legacy as Miss Uganda is tied to empowering young people. “One of my proudest achievements was launching a petition to fight teenage pregnancy, which we presented to the Speaker of Parliament,” she recounts. “We also advocated for menstrual health and rights, as these issues are foundational for women’s well-being. Now, I’m incorporating entrepreneurship and innovation into my work, ensuring young people can sustain themselves and avoid making desperate choices.”
Phiona credits the pageant for transforming her life. “It elevated my self-esteem and belief in myself,” she says. “As someone who always wanted to model, winning Miss Uganda showed me I could achieve anything. It’s not just about the title—it’s a platform for growth, if you know how to use it.”
As she continues her journey, she remains committed to making a difference. “I’ll always be Miss Uganda 2012,” she says with pride. “Whether it is ten or twenty years from now, everything I do will still reflect that legacy of empowering and uplifting young people.”
Stella Nantumbwe – Miss Uganda 2013
Stella Nantumbwe has gracefully transitioned from the glitz of the pageant world to a fulfilling life filled with varied pursuits. She’s a successful actor, model and businesswoman. “I dabble in the corporate world too,” she shares. “I currently manage two hotels and a resort. It’s challenging, but fun.” In addition to her professional responsibilities, she is also a dedicated mother and an active mentor. “Mentorship is something I’m passionate about. Guiding others, especially young people, is something that’s deeply close to my heart.”
Reflecting on her reign as Miss Uganda, she’s most memorable moments include impactful community engagements. “Winning was, of course, memorable,” she says with a smile. “But what stood out for me were the charity engagements, particularly the warming campaign and teaching teenagers about sexual health. Those moments, where I got to connect with the public, are ones I’ll always cherish.”
For Stella, Miss Uganda is more than just a title. “It’s a sisterhood that’s growing—a promise of hope and a learning curve for young girls,” she says. “It’s a platform for showcasing talent, gaining mentorship, and growing in ways that prepare you for life’s challenges.”
She hopes her legacy inspires others. “I want my legacy to be one of inspiration—to follow through, to change, and to grow,” she explains. “I want young girls to learn from my mistakes and achievements. Life is full of tough moments, but with guidance, they can navigate them better.” She acknowledges her own imperfections during her reign. “Everybody makes mistakes,” she admits. “There are things I didn’t do perfectly, but I learned from them. Growing in Uganda’s entertainment industry is crazy—you have to be careful about what you do and how you do it.”
When asked what she wishes she had known before entering the pageant, Stella reflects on the resilience required. “The tenacity and grit needed to stay in the game are underestimated,” she says. “You need to love it enough to keep going—to keep smiling when you’re tired and care about others’ lives more than your own. Without a good support system, it’s easy to fall off.”
She believes pageants like Miss Uganda play a crucial role in personal development. “If you join for the right reasons, you’ll grow from it,” she explains. “Pageants give girls a platform to showcase their talents, meet mentors, and gain experiences that strengthen them for the future. It builds resilience and teaches you how to keep going even when you don’t know what lies ahead.”
The experience has undoubtedly changed her life. “Winning opened up so many opportunities,” she recounts. “I met people who now play significant roles in my life, whether in acting, corporate life, or personally. You can’t put a price on those relationships and networks.”
Looking back, she says she would have prepared even more for the competition. “I felt prepared, but now I realize there was so much more I could have done,” she says. “We queens didn’t always learn enough from each other, but now we know better and are doing better.”
The journey wasn’t without challenges. “Finances were hard during my reign,” she reveals. “Pageants are expensive, and your lifestyle becomes more costly. Back then, there wasn’t as much sponsorship as there is now. But kudos to Miss Brenda for holding on and ensuring the pageant survived those tough times.”
Beyond her work in film in front of the camera, Stella is now venturing into production. “Surprise, surprise!” she laughs. “I’ve acted, won awards, and received nominations. But now, I’m focusing on directing my own shows and writing scripts. I think I’m a better writer than actress, and I’m working on creating something that’s entirely mine.” Though her projects are yet to be unveiled, she remains optimistic. “I’ve had guidance from my mentor in film and relied on self-learning,” she says. “God has blessed me with talent, and I’m excited to see where it takes me.”
She continues to inspire, mentor, and create, leaving a lasting impact both as Miss Uganda and beyond. “The journey has been tough but rewarding,” she says. “And I’m grateful for every moment.”
Quiin Abenakyo – Miss Uganda 2018
In 2018, Quiin Abenakyo made history when she placed number 4 at Miss World also winning the Miss World Africa title in Sanya, China. “Becoming Miss World Africa was monumental—not just for me, but for Uganda as a whole,” she recalls, her voice brimming with pride. Reflecting on her time as Miss Uganda, she fondly remembers the night she was crowned. “Winning was life-changing. It gave me a platform to meet influential people like the president and the speaker of parliament. To her, Miss Uganda is much more than a beauty pageant. “It means beauty with a purpose,” she explained. “It’s about looking beyond yourself and using your platform to impact others. For me, Miss Uganda signifies change and embracing challenges to find solutions.”
A dedicated advocate for change and a symbol of hope for many young girls across Uganda, in 2019, she launched the Abenakyo Foundation, a nonprofit organization aimed at addressing critical issues such as teenage pregnancies and child marriages. Through the foundation, Quiin explains, “We’ve implemented programs in the slums of Kampala and are now looking to expand to rural areas like Mayuge District.” These initiatives focus on advocacy, sexual reproductive health education, and skilling teenage mothers in practical trades like hairdressing, baking, and soap-making. “We also mentor the younger generation and include both boys and girls in our programs to create holistic solutions for societal problems,” she adds.
“I want to be remembered as a beacon of hope—a representation of ‘grass to grace.’ Coming from a humble background, winning Miss Uganda at 22 was a testament to God’s favor in my life. I want every little girl out there to know that what seems unattainable is possible,” she shares.
However, the journey wasn’t without its challenges. “The fame was a big adjustment, “she recalls. “One minute, you’re an ordinary person, and the next, you’re an A-list celebrity making headlines. Your life changes drastically, and you have to navigate relationships, media scrutiny, and the pressure of representing an entire nation.”
For Quiin, a strong support system made all the difference. “My family has always been my pillar of strength. Having people who have your back no matter what is crucial,” she says, emphasizing the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive individuals.
Looking back, she has no regrets but would approach the competition with a different strategy if given the chance. “I’d tell myself to enjoy the process. During the competition, you’re under so much pressure that you forget to take it all in. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I wish I had cherished every moment more,” she reflects.
She’s currently living a quiet life – working in the Technology Department, IT demand Management as a Test Coordinator at MTN Uganda, a leading telecoms company in Uganda. Her background in is technology—she holds a Bachelor’s in Business Computing and a Masters of Arts in Information & Telecommunication Technology. “The world is changing, and we need to adapt. My goal is to use advancements in technology to tackle societal challenges. Miss Uganda gave me a platform, and I will keep using it to uplift others,” she concludes with conviction.
Elizabeth Bagaya – Miss Uganda 2022
Elizabeth Bagaya truly embodies resilience and passion – first, she had a unique run as Miss Uganda having taken on the crown with a competition, and second, she held the title from 2021 to 2023 during the COVID-19 Pageant, undoubtedly one of the toughest times ever. Despite the turmoil, Elizabeth wouldn’t change a thing about her experience. “Knowing what I know now, I’d still do it all over again. The journey has shaped me in ways I never imagined. Becoming Miss Uganda after being the first runner-up in 2019 was unprecedented. It’s a testament that everything happens for a reason,” she reflects.
“If there’s one thing I wish I knew before entering the pageant, it’s to have a thick skin,” she admits. “Everyone has an opinion about you—what you’re doing, how you’re doing it, and even why you’re doing it. I had to learn to ignore the criticism and focus on my purpose,” she says.
“One thing I wish I’d known before entering the pageant is just how much mental and emotional strength it requires,” she elaborates, “While I anticipated the glamour and hard work, I didn’t fully realize how important it would be to stay confident and resilient in the face of criticism, competition, and public scrutiny.
Looking back, I’ve learned that self-belief and a strong support system are just as crucial as physical preparation. If I had known this earlier, I would have focused even more on building inner strength and surrounding myself with people who uplift and inspire me. That understanding has been one of the most valuable lessons of this journey.”
Her most memorable experiences during her reign were the outreach programs in villages like Mityana and Kabale. “Talking to young girls about menstrual health and sexual education was life-changing. Seeing their faces light up and knowing we were making a difference gave me immense contentment,” she recalls. To her, Miss Uganda is more than a beauty pageant—it is a platform for empowerment. “Miss Uganda is about giving back to society and being an example for young girls. It’s service above self,” she notes.
When asked about her legacy, Elizabeth takes a thoughtful pause. “I hope to be remembered as someone who inspired others, especially young girls, to rise above challenges and believe in themselves,” she said. “Miss Uganda is about creating a lasting impact, and I want my time to reflect that.” The title opened doors she never dreamed of. “Miss Uganda gave me opportunities to travel, meet incredible people, and build lifelong bonds with my sisters in the pageant. From Puerto Rico to New York Fashion Week, it’s been life-changing,” she says.
Beyond the crown, she is a makeup artist and a mental health advocate dedicated to raising awareness about issues often overlooked in Uganda. “Mental health is a topic people here don’t fully understand,” Elizabeth says. “It’s often dismissed as a ‘white man’s disease,’ yet so many mental illnesses aren’t physical but are just as real. I take great pride in educating and sensitizing people about these invisible struggles.”
Her advocacy work extends to Butabika Hospital, where she spends time with children to provide them with love and a sense of belonging. “Visiting Butabika is incredibly rewarding. Being with the children, playing with them, and letting them know they are not alone is a deeply fulfilling experience,” she explains.
Before joining Miss Uganda, she was already a makeup artist and had established her brand, Glam by Liz. “Makeup has always been a calming and joyful activity for me. I even did my full face today,” she gushes. After taking a brief hiatus, she is now rebranding the business, a pursuit is greatly excited about.
As Elizabeth prepares for the next chapter of her life, her focus remains on giving back. “The biggest challenge during my reign was navigating the unexpected, but it also taught me resilience and gratitude. My goal is to continue inspiring others through my actions and advocacy,” she concludes.
Hannah Karema – Miss Uganda 2023
Hannah Karema’s journey to being crowned Miss Uganda 2023 was nothing short of remarkable. Hailing from a humble background, she defied expectations, broke stereotypes, and became a symbol of empowerment for young women across the nation. For her, Miss Uganda is not just a title; it’s a platform for transformation and inspiration.
“Miss Uganda is a woman who believes in herself and steps into the public eye to show what women are capable of achieving in their communities,” Hannah explains. “It’s about inspiring young women to do better, to believe in themselves, and to take up space on different platforms.”
Reflecting on her time in the competition, she describes every moment as memorable and significant. “For me, it was a dream come true,” she shares. “Every step, from the auditions to the preliminaries, Miss World, my Beauty with a Purpose project, and touching hearts in communities, was a blessing. The entire journey was special.”
However, the path to the crown wasn’t without its challenges. Hannah admits that she had moments of self-doubt, especially as rumors and criticism emerged during boot camp. “We spent three weeks in boot camp, and at first, I thought maybe I’d make it to the top 10 or top 5,” she recounts. “But then, people started criticizing me, saying I wasn’t Ugandan enough because of my background. It was hurtful. By the time I stepped on stage, my hopes of winning had waned. I chose to enjoy the moment and learn.” Despite her doubts, however, her energy and authenticity captivated the audience. “When I stepped on stage, I connected with people. Many said there was something about me that they liked, even without knowing my story,” she recalls.
She credits her success to the support system she built before entering the competition. “I had friends from different industries—artists, former beauty queens, models, and professionals—who rooted for me.”
Life after Miss Uganda has been transformative for Hannah. She described it as “beautiful,” albeit with less pressure and attention. “I’m not as overwhelmed as I was during my reign, and that has allowed me to focus on other things, like school,” she reveals. “I have something big planned for 2025, but I’ll keep it as a surprise for now.”
When asked about her legacy, her vision is clear: “I want to see young women from villages feel empowered, educated, and confident. My goal is to inspire them to believe in themselves and to pursue their dreams. A happy and empowered woman can create a beautiful world for everyone.” She is deeply passionate about putting a smile on other people, a value that defines her approach to life. “I love making people happy,” she says. “For instance, surprising someone with a Christmas gift or just doing something thoughtful—it brings me joy.”
Her experience as Miss Uganda taught her valuable lessons, particularly about resilience and mental strength. “Boot camp tested my patience and determination. It was a space where you had to rise above misunderstandings and distractions to focus on your goal,” she says. “There’s a lot people don’t see—late nights, constant activities, and the pressure to always deliver.”
Hannah acknowledges that pageantry is not all glamour. “There are hidden challenges that test your mental health, especially the judgment about how you look or speak,” she explains. “It’s a lot of work, but it’s also rewarding.”
As she moves forward, she remains grounded. For her, self-care starts from within. “It’s not just about looking good on the outside. You have to be mentally and spiritually at peace. Even intermittent fasting or prayer can help you connect with yourself,” she explained.
Despite the challenges, her focus remains on empowering others. “I want young women to know that success isn’t limited to pageantry. It’s about choosing your path and following it with determination,” she says.
Natasha Nyonyozi – Miss Uganda 2024
Natasha Nyonyozi, the reigning Miss Uganda, is clearly in the right hands with all the wealth of experience. She too, however, has her own path cut out too is enjoying the learning curve as it unfolds. Her role has already afforded her a platform to speak about causes close to her heart, particularly autism awareness. “My younger brother has autism, and he’s non-verbal,” she shares, her voice softening with emotion. “Growing up around him made me realize how important it is to create acceptance for those with special needs.” Through her initiative, The Nyonyozi Initiative, she has advocated for autism awareness, encouraging others to share their stories. “A lot of people reached out to me after I shared my story,” she says. “They were afraid to speak out because of the stigma, especially in African cultures. But we need to embrace children with autism as blessings from God. They belong here, and they have a purpose.”
As for her legacy, Natasha hopes to leave a lasting impact. “I pray that God uses me as a vessel during this time and beyond,” she says thoughtfully. “I want to be remembered for something different, something memorable that serves a purpose.”
Reflecting on what she would have done differently in the pageant, she admits she could have fought harder for her space. “There were moments of weakness where I didn’t stand out as much as I could have,” she says. “But now, I know that you have to fight for your space. Every opportunity you get, make sure you stand out.” It’s a lesson she’ll take with her into her journey to represent Uganda at the Miss World pageant in 2025. “I want to be the first Ugandan to bring the blue crown home,” she declares.
The journey, though fulfilling, has not been without challenges. Managing her duties as Miss Uganda alongside running a business has tested her. “It’s been hard to balance everything,” she admits. “Sometimes, I have to choose but I’m learning to create a schedule that works for me.” Despite the challenges, her resilience shines through. “People’s opinions can be tough,” she acknowledges. “But the most important thing is to be kind and not judge others. You never know what someone else is going through.”
On how she ended up participating in the pageant, she starts by explaining. “My name Nyonyozi means ‘star’. That said, I shall never forget the day I was crowned.”
Before all this, she was grounded in her career as an accountant. “I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Finance from Coventry University,” she says, revealing the academic foundation that propelled her back to Uganda. She worked at an audit firm called TAM Associates, where she began her career in accounting. “Eventually, I realized I could also take part in the Miss Uganda competition,” she recalls. However, her passion for beauty didn’t stop there. She is also the proud owner of Girl Hive, a beauty store offering skincare and makeup products. “I’m really into the beauty space – everything from skincare to makeup,” she adds.
Despite her success in business and beauty, Natasha hasn’t given up on her accounting roots. “I didn’t quit accounting,” she explains. “I put it on hold for now, three years just on hold. But it’s something I still use every day, especially running my business. You can’t avoid accounting.”
When asked about her most memorable moment as Miss Uganda, she immediately reflects on the crowning night. “That crowning night means a lot to me. It was not just the crown, it was the journey,” she explains. “I’ve learned so much in these few months. It’s about more than just being celebrated. It’s about service, humility, and leading by example.”
“I hope to make a difference, not just in Uganda, but in the world and the journey has just begun,” she concludes.
Take a look at the full spread here!
Credits:
Photography: @vic_media_photography
Location: @vic_media_studios_
Makeup: Elizabeth (Her own), Hannah (Her own), Sylvia, Natasha, Abenakyo (@tianah_artistry), Stella & Bizzu (@memxstudio)
Hair: @natna_hair_
Hair installation: @tianah_artistry
Wardrobe: @miss_shee_
Accessories: @nshuti_accessories
Video: @pages_photography @ritah_shot_it
Assistants: @ritah_namirimu, @sturritella
Creative Direction: @atwiin3 @hassan_satis
