Miss Malawi Second Princess Tina Nkombezi is in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where she is representing the country at the inaugural Miss African Essence International pageant.
The pageant; continental competition which has brought together contestants from across Africa, is a platform that promotes African heritage and empowers queens to showcase their talent, intelligence and cultural pride.
In an interview before departure on Sunday, Nkombezi said representing the country comes with pride and responsibility, as she carries the country’s identity and expectations.
“Malawi is known as the Warm Heart of Africa and for me it is an opportunity to share our kindness, culture and resilience with the rest of the continent. I feel grateful, excited and deeply motivated to represent my country in the best way possible,” she said.
Nkombezi said the platform offers her an opportunity to tell Malawi’s story beyond borders, highlighting its people, culture and values.
On her preparedness, the beauty queen was confident and said she was ready mentally and emotionally to take on the challenge and make the most of the experience.
“I am ready with a strong sense of purpose. This journey is not just about competing, but about growth, learning and building meaningful connections across Africa,” she said.
Nkombezi said she intended to use fashion, storytelling and personal conduct to showcase Malawi.
She has since called for support from Malawians, saying unity and encouragement will play a crucial role, especially if public voting becomes part of the competition.
In a separate interview, Miss Malawi Organisation public relations officer Stephen Mdala said Mkombezi is adequately prepared to represent the country at the continental pageant.
“She is ready and well-prepared for this. We want her to showcase Malawi’s culture and fashion as she is on the international stage. One of the collection she is presenting is our Chilundu attire that reflects a Malawian woman,” he said.
Mdala said the wardrobe has been designed by local fashion designers, including Dolphin Designs, which has played a significant role in preparing outfits for different categories.
He added that participation at this level is important and will inspire upcoming contestants by showing that the Miss Malawi platform extends beyond the national stage.
Said Mdala: “It is important because it allows our girls to compete at a continental level, make connections with other pageants and gain exposure in different countries.
“It is also a learning point for us, as we get to know what is needed for our queens to participate on international platforms.”
The pageant will feature beauty queens from 20 African countries including Kenya, Cameroon, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Congo and Burundi.
Beyond the crown, the pageant will feature subsidiary awards, including best in national costume, best in evening gown, best in photogenic, best in talent and best in advocacy or communication.
The winner will walk away with a cash prize or a vehicle, diplomacy training, an opportunity to work as an ambassador with the African Tourism Board.
