Miss Uganda puts autism in spotlight on world stage

Miss Uganda 2024, Natasha Nyonyozi, has captured global hearts with advocacy for autism awareness and inclusion of victims at this year’s Miss World in India.

In her 'Beauty with a Purpose' speech, Nyonyozi raised awareness about autism, advocating for better support systems and breaking the stigma at the ongoing Miss World event in Telangana, India.

Wearing a confident smile, Natasha stood tall as she delivered a speech rooted in personal pain, resilience and a mission to rewrite the African narrative on autism.  

“I’m proud to be the first Ugandan to advocate for autism on the Miss World stage,” she said.

Natasha’s advocacy is deeply personal as her youngest brother, Ethan, was diagnosed with autism at two. In many African communities, such a diagnosis can invite more than medical concern—it often sparks cruel gossip and accusations.

“We had people coming up to us asking if we sacrificed him or performed witchcraft on him,” she recounted emotionally.

“That is the ignorance that is in Africa.”

While standing on the Miss World stage with women from over 100 countries, Natasha reminded the audience that autism is not just a Ugandan issue. (Courtesy Photo)

Ethan’s condition is compounded by the fact that he is non-verbal.

“You can imagine what it’s like to have a sibling who’s unable to communicate what he’s feeling verbally,” she said. 

Nyonyozi says this experience has pushed her to start a foundation—an initiative dedicated to empowering children with special needs, especially those on the autism spectrum.

“I wanted these special needs children to feel like they, too, are stars, regardless of what the world wants to name them,” she said.

Autism run and walk

During the World Autism Awareness Month (April), Natasha and her team organised the country’s first Autism Awareness Run, followed by a World Autism Walk, drawing in hundreds of parents, children, health workers and advocates.

The events, held in partnership with organisations such as Autism Society Uganda, were statements of inclusion.

While standing on the Miss World stage with women from over 100 countries, Natasha reminded the audience that autism is not just a Ugandan issue.

“It’s a world problem,” she said. “75 million people are diagnosed with autism around the world.”

Her speech drew a standing ovation. Many in the audience confessed they had never heard autism addressed so boldly at an international beauty competition.

“She has done in a few months what some of us have tried to do for years,” Autism Society Uganda managing director Dorothy Nambi said. “By sharing her personal story and putting a human face to autism, she has broken a national silence.”

Autism, a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting communication and behaviour, is on the rise in Uganda. According to the Autism Society of Uganda (ASU), cases have increased significantly over the last decade, yet diagnosis remains difficult due to limited expertise and awareness.

“We estimate that more than 700,000 children are affected, but many go undiagnosed. The lack of trained professionals and specialised centres makes it difficult for families to access support,” Nambi says.

The 72nd Miss World Festival officially commenced on May 10, 2025, with the inauguration at the Gachibowli Indoor Stadium in Hyderabad, setting the stage for a month-long celebration of beauty, culture, and humanitarian values.