Uganda is glowing with pride as Natasha Nyonyozi makes her country proud on one of the biggest stages in the world — the 72nd Miss World pageant. She didn’t just walk the runway; she walked straight into the hearts of millions by winning one of the most meaningful recognitions at the event: the Beauty With a Purpose award.
Natasha’s project, The Nyonyozi Initiative, is deeply personal. Inspired by her younger brother who has autism, she has become a powerful voice for children with autism in Uganda. Her mission? To break stigmas, spark conversations, and push for a more inclusive society — where every child, no matter how they learn or express themselves, feels seen and valued.
With this win, Natasha not only secured her spot as a Miss World quarterfinalist, but also helped Uganda land a spot in Africa’s Top 10 — a huge deal on the global stage.
And guess what? This isn’t just a one-off win for Uganda. Last year, Hannah Karema — who represented the country at the 71st edition of Miss World — also won the Beauty With a Purpose award. That’s two wins back-to-back in the same powerful category. If that’s not proof that Ugandan queens are showing up and showing out with purpose, we don’t know what is.
For those who aren’t familiar, Beauty With a Purpose is one of the most respected parts of Miss World. It celebrates contestants who are using their platform to create real change in their communities — from education to healthcare to social justice. It’s beauty with impact.
Natasha now joins a global sisterhood of changemakers, standing alongside Nicole Kezia from Indonesia, Millie–Mae Wales from Wales, and Valeria Perez from Puerto Rico, who also won in their respective regions. All four have advanced to the quarterfinals, representing the heart and soul of the Miss World competition.
She also stands tall with her African sisters — Selma Kamanya from Namibia and Faith Bwalya from Zambia, who are also quarterfinalists.
Uganda, take a bow. Your queens are not only beautiful — they’re breaking barriers and building bridges.
