Beauty pageants redefined as platforms for leadership and tourism awareness in Lango

6 April 2026, 2:04 pm

By Baker Okello

Miss Lango, Queen Linda Acio Abong has called on schoolgirls to actively participate in pageantry, emphasizing its role in building confidence, enhancing public speaking skills, and promoting awareness of Uganda’s tourism sector among young people.

The Lango queen made these remarks while officiating at the crowning ceremony of Miss Bishop Tarantino College Ngetta and Miss Tourism at Bishop Tarantino College Ngetta on Sunday. She explained that such platforms prepare students to become future ambassadors of sustainable tourism by equipping them with leadership and communication skills.

Queen Acio highlighted that pageant competitions go beyond appearance, often requiring contestants to present traditional attire, perform cultural dances, and demonstrate knowledge of their heritage—an approach that strengthens cultural identity among the youth. She cautioned students against viewing such contests as mere beauty show, stressing instead their value in nurturing leadership and moral responsibility among winners.

In the competition, Nyakecho Ritha (Senior Two) was crowned Miss Bishop Tarantino College 2026–2027. Ejang Malliam Marita (Senior One) emerged as first runner-up, while Apolo Martha (Senior Four) took the position of second runner-up.

For the Miss Tourism category, Apio Topista Faith (Senior Five) was crowned winner, with Acen Daniela Blessing (Senior Three) and Acen Debrah (Senior Two) named first and second runners-up respectively.

Speaking after her victory, Nyakecho Ritha said her motivation for joining the contest was to advocate for positive change within the school, pledging to improve its physical environment.

Meanwhile, Miss Tourism winner Topista Faith Apio committed to promoting local tourism sites around Ngetta, including hills, forests, and other natural attractions.

The school’s headteacher, Babra Amoli, encouraged learners to take part in co-curricular activities, noting that such engagements help nurture talent and broaden students’ exposure to educational opportunities.

Organizers also noted that pageants like Miss Tourism incorporate training workshops and boot camps focusing on environmental conservation, reproductive health, and entrepreneurship—ensuring participants gain well-rounded life skills.