By Usman Fambuleh
With the theme “Redefining Beauty Through Purpose and Leadership,” AYV Media Empire, in collaboration with the National Union of Sierra Leone Students (NUSS), has officially launched the AYV Miss University 2026 pageant, aimed at promoting intelligence, leadership and purpose among female university students.
The official launch, held at The View, FCC Building in Freetown, brought together development partners, former queens, students, invited guests and members of the media.
Welcoming guests, dignitaries and partners, Managing Director of AYV Media Empire, Umaru Fofana, said the pageant was created to celebrate more than physical beauty, noting that it seeks to empower young women with confidence, leadership skills and opportunities to contribute meaningfully to society.
“AYV Miss University will not only showcase beauty but also brains. It spotlights our beauty queens in the universities,” he stated.
Delivering his remarks, the Minister of Youth Affairs commended AYV and NUSS for establishing a platform that empowers young women. He encouraged aspiring contestants to believe in themselves, remain focused and overcome challenges throughout the competition.
“This is your moment to show yourselves, dust yourselves up and don’t allow yourselves to be pulled down,” he emphasised, adding that pageantry goes beyond beauty and provides an opportunity for contestants to become role models capable of inspiring positive change.
Officially launching the pageant, Deputy Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Dr. Kadija Grace Kamara, described the initiative as a platform that places purpose and leadership at the heart of beauty.
She encouraged eligible female students to take advantage of the opportunity, noting that the crown comes with responsibility and influence.
“To the participants of AYV Miss University, know that on this platform there is more to beauty than it looks. With the crown, you are as important as a First Lady,” she remarked.
Dr. Kamara further stated that the launch of AYV Miss University 2026 presents an opportunity for young women to rise, showcase their talents and demonstrate their potential.
Sharing her experience, Fatima Kamara, winner of the AYV Miss University 2023/2024 pageant, explained how the competition transformed her life. She said the title provided her with national exposure, a vehicle and several personal and professional opportunities.
“Winning AYV Miss University gave me exposure, a car and several other opportunities,” she said, while encouraging prospective contestants to embrace the platform and compete for the crown.
The launch marks the beginning of another edition of the competition, with organisers stating that AYV Miss University 2026 will continue to celebrate young women not only for their beauty, but also for their intellect, leadership, service and commitment to national development.
