Miss Malawi second princess Tina Nkombezi says she is ready to make the country proud as she prepares to become the first Malawian to compete at the Miss International pageant, scheduled for November 25 in Tokyo, Japan.
Nkombezi, who also represented Malawi at the Miss African Essence earlier this year, has described the opportunity as a dream come true, saying she is honoured to represent the country at an international platform.
She said: “Being the first Malawian to represent the country at Miss International makes it even more special. I am excited, but most importantly, ready to give it my best and make Malawi proud.”
The 64th edition of the pageant will take place at Tokyo Dome City Hall bringing together contestants from different countries.
Nkombezi said she looks forward to exchanging cultural experiences with other contestants and to using the opportunity to showcase Malawi’s culture, warmth and tourism potential.
“I also hope to use the international platform to grow as a young woman and build meaningful connections,” she said.
Nkombezi, therefore, called for financial assistsnce from well-wishers and corporate partners to help meet some of her outstanding preparations.
Among others, the Miss Malawi Second Princess said she still needs assistance with wardrobe, make-up products, accessories, travel insurance and additional luggage as well as travel arrangements for her chaperone.
“Every repost, connection, contribution and kind word makes a difference. This is not just my journey, I am carrying Malawi with me and I would love the country to be part of it,” she said.
Miss Malawi Organisation was not immediately available to respond to our questionnaire, but chief executive officer Bernardetta Mweso issued a statement which indicated that Nkombezi independently explored international pageant opportunities aligned with her vision.
It read in part: “The organisation then received an official invitation from Miss International officials on October 6 for Nkombezi to participate in this year’s competition.
“Following the invitation, the organisation took time to navigate and seek guidance from relevant stakeholders and resolved to facilitate her participation.”
The statement further said the organisation see this as an opportunity for her to showcase Malawi’s potential and the contestant’s advocacy work.
Through her organisation, Ignite Mwana Malawi, Nkombezi champions menstrual poverty advocacy and initiatives aimed at improving the lives and dignity of young people.
Meanwhile, for the next competition the Miss Malawi Organisation has introduced new eligibility requirements for aspiring contestants, including a provision that they should be financially prepared for the pageant journey.
It was not immediately clear what financial responsibilities contestants are expected to meet and at what point and the level of support the organisation will be providing.
The organisation’s position on the requirement and its financial support arrangements could also not be established by press time.
