By Jimmy Chazama
Miss Culture Malawi Ireen Navicha returned home from South Africa on Sunday.
However, she failed to claim the Miss Teen Universe crown.
India won the Miss Teen Universe 2024.
However, Navicha, who recently missed out on the Miss Culture Global crown and only settled for First Princess, managed to be in the top 20 in the contest.
It attracted 80 contestants from around the world.
By reaching the top 20, she earned recognition for her social project.
“I wish I brought the crown home but it did not work out. I am still happy in that I reached top 20 and, on top of that, my social project was selected as the best,” Navicha said.
The second-year student at Malawi University of Science and Technology in Thyolo said the project was aimed at supporting the livelihoods of vulnerable populations, especially children, youths and women.
Lush Africa Foundation Chief Executive Officer Lorraine Kljajic has since praised Navicha for her exceptional performance despite missing the crown.
“For the first time, Malawi sent a contestant to the competition and Ireen’s performance has shown our country’s potential. We are committed to nurturing this talent and we will continue to participate annually,” Kljajic said.
She said Navicha’s social project had already attracted potential partners.
Miss Teen Universe is an international beauty pageant for teenage girls aged between 14 and 19 years.
It promotes youth empowerment and global connections.
Meanwhile, Miss and Mrs Culture Malawi 2024 edition will be held on November 29 2024 at Bingu International Convention Centre in Lilongwe.
