One of the most highly anticipated events that entertain viewers in Rwanda is the Miss Rwanda beauty pageant. I mean what’s there to not eagerly await? It’s not every day that one witness glamorous gowns, beautiful queens unveiling their talents, mastered catwalks, esteemed culture, unique projects, and everything in between.
“I’m a commoner“
I am in no position to tell you how it feels to be in the spotlight. It is much easier to portray a queen as a wretched soul than acknowledge her title, worth, and capabilities. She got the crown in 2022, Competing with more than a thousand ladies from all 30 districts with oddly dissimilar sublime scruples by simply or rather gracefully presenting her project to the jury who hail crucial from the media and entertainment industry and people around the world. Contrary to what others believe, “they are not openly rewarded for simply being willowy and symmetrical.”
I bear witness that, the minute one steps into the competition venue goes through the orientation process, and is allowed to meet, interact, and eventually form bonds with the contestants. “It is all earned. it is merited” is the brush of reality that hits you as though it is a cold splash of water abruptly poured onto your face.
When given this platform, one’s put under immense pressure to uphold excellence and maintain a certain image. It all happens in haste and there is no such thing as clarity. Subtle verbal disrespect and banter are the bouquet of tulips they receive from the audience. I mean that is what everyone believes. Cleary, the most unforeseen and unvoiced reality is the way the Miss Rwanda title fosters cultural awareness, understanding, resilience, and empathy. That aside, I have been given the privilege to have a one-on-one tranquil conversation with her. It was about her allowing me to meet her halfway and dauntlessly unshackle her authenticity.
What role beauty and fashion play in your life?
Frankly, these two are integrals to my brand. They help develop a distinct aesthetic style that suits me and resonates with my audience. I feel humbled and take pride in collaborating with brands to promote products. I am honored to see the progress that my country Rwanda has made in the fashion and beauty industry.
When working with these variety brands, I make sure to pour out a balanced respect for the brand’s line of work and stay true to my values to create content that is both authentic and impactful. One that revolves around personal growth, diversity, inclusion, and empowerment.
I choose colors depending on the seasons. Dark shades and light colors have their way depending on the time of the year we have struck. Summer, frigid days, and temperate days have a role in what style I usually opt for in my indoor life even though eventually, as a public figure, I go for an elegant, classy, casual, or even extra style when it is a necessity. Understated elegance!
Share some of your favorite beauty and fashion trends that you have been loving recently
Beauty-wise, I prefer a natural look. I focus on enhancing a warm and luminous glow from within. I am fond of natural-looking makeup with lightweight foundations, glossy lips or tinted moisturizers, minimal coverage, and a radiant finish. As for fashion, I like dressing according to the occasion, yes! I love to stay up to date with the latest fashion trends and incorporate them into my outfits. There are times I embrace avant-garde designs, bold colors, unconventional silhouettes, and high-end designer labels -but regardless of it all, I prioritize comfort and functionality. I prefer timeless and classic pieces with unique thrift finds with a sophisticated touch.
Can you discuss any challenges you have faced when experimenting with new beauty or fashion looks, and how you overcame them?
Yes! Of course, there are some challenges but not so many. Most of the time before using a product. I consider reviews and recommendations from people and the internet. I prefer gold instead of Silver and I sometimes develop short-time skin irritation when adorned by Gold. It is a minor allergic reaction it has never been “that bad” and so far, that is the repel I have encountered fashion-wise.
As for beauty, I have had challenges finding the right foundation that matches both my skin tone and undertone. Some are super light; others are a dark shade for my skin.
How do you stay up to date with the latest beauty and fashion trends, and where do you draw your inspiration from?
Listen, I stay up to date with the latest trends like any other person. The internet, friends, and family are the solemn reasons why I manage to keep up with this first-changing beauty and fashion industry.
In my circle you will find a group of daring, intelligent, confident, humble, fashion-forward individuals with refined, test. We have distinctiveness when it comes to beauty and fashion and yet everyone fits in which makes this industry what it is.
