From Christy Anyanwu in London
South African Pearl Mkwananzi, 27, has emerged this year’s Miss Ebony Ambassador UK.
She beat eight other contestants from different African countries to become the new beauty queen at the pageant organised by Irene Eribo-Ani and held at Hilton London Docklands recently.
Mkwananzi opened up to Sunday Sun shortly after the star-studded event.
Tell us briefly about yourself?
I am from South Africa, but I have lived in the UK since 2004. I grew up in Zimbabwe. My mum is South African and my dad is from Zimbabwe. Most times I go to Zimbabwe and South Africa on holidays. I moved to London in 2004 with my parents. Presently, I’m a student and about to graduate from University of Bedfordshire where I am studying Dance and Performing Art.
Why did you participate in the Miss Ebony contest?
I participated in the contest because it offered something different from other pageants. I like their objectives, aims and what they do; and it’s something I fancy. I have always loved to empower the youths and young girls in Africa. I decided to give the contest a trial, even if I didn’t win, it would give me lots of opportunities. Not only that, I like the fact that we are celebrating black women from different African countries. We don’t see that aspect a lot in the social media, in pageants or anywhere when it comes to beauty. In the society right now, there’s so much going on about dark-skinned women and light-skinned women. So, to see women in different shapes, sizes and skin tones; to celebrate each other and come together is something beautiful, and also having opportunity to be part of it is something I cherish so much.
How did you get to know about the pageant?
It’s on the website that is basically for people who are performers, actors, models, whatever within the arts industry. I always check the site if I could have opportunities for auditions for modeling because I model as well. It was on the platform that I saw Miss Ebony Ambassador’s flyer. I was contemplating whether I should do it or not. My spirit just told me to go for it. Today, I’m Miss Ebony Ambassador 2022.
Before the contest, did you realise you were going to win?
No. Funny enough, other contestants and I were discussing about who was going to win before the judges now came up with the result. I was so shocked when they announced me as the winner and announced me as Miss Elegant as well. I really don’t know I’m elegant in the eyes. I probably would have gone for Miss Bold.
How did you feel when you eventually heard your name as winner?
Initially, I wasn’t really sure. Then, I wanted to cry. I wanted to scream. I wanted to faint. In fact, I didn’t really know what I wanted to do. I was really happy. The girls were all around me, saying they knew I would win. They seemed to have known but I did not see it that way. I’m really proud of myself because it is a big thing to do. It is a big thing to stand in front of people, to display your country, to talk about yourself and all that.
What pet project do you have in mind to embark on?
I want to empower the youths either in Zimbabwe or Nigeria, or just anywhere. Obviously, I want to go to South Africa to start my pet project. I intend to do a lot of charity work. I have seen lots of videos on Instagram and I’m so moved. Here, a lot of people complain about things they don’t have. But they need to go to places like Africa and see where people live – sometimes no electricity, no water, no business, and they are so much humble. I want to just go there and experience that. I want to help them, I want to provide, and I want to give back with my talents. I want to show them this is my home, this is where I come from; and I want to represent them. Africa is a beautiful place and I want to showcase that.
Your outfit stands out, who is the designer?
I bought this outfit from a prom dress shop close to my house just for this event.
What prize did you get as the winner?
I don’t know yet the gifts attached to being the winner.
Now as queen would you forget your boyfriend?
I have a free and easy life. I’m a mum already. I went to university for three years. I was juggling two jobs being a mum of two boys. I’m 27 years old and I’m catering to my fellow students, trying to bring them up, help them through their adversities, including my friends outside the university and wherever they may be. I’m an usher. I’m also a sale executive and now training to be a sound leader. There are so many things I’m doing. I have to balance all these things so that I’m not too overwhelmed with stress and get exhausted.
How did your parents feel tonight that you are queen?
My dad passed away four years ago but my mum was here tonight, and she was very happy. My sister and my niece also contested in this pageant. My sister came second and my niece came third.