Beauty queens inspiring young people in Uganda

INSPIRING THE YOUTH

KAMPALA - The Miss Uganda Foundation together with United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) have embarked on a campaign to have young people especially girls interact with their role models and draw inspiration to achieve their dreams.

"Your life is your responsibility; no one has the right to belittle or intimidate you unless you let them. They don't deserve that privilege." reigning Miss World Africa Quinn Abenakyo on Friday in Kampala encouraged a group of youths.

Reigning Miss Uganda Quinn Abenakyo was joined by Miss Uganda 2016/17 Leah Kagasa and Miss Uganda 2012/13 Phiona Bizzu in sharing their personal stories with curious and adoring fans equally keen to shine in their space.

Telling their stories in a question and answer style during the "Live your dream moment" the Miss Uganda beauty queens shared how they have managed to overcome peer and social pressure to succeed.

According to the Uganda 2016 demographic and health survey 25% of girls age 15 to 19 either have a child or are pregnant.

Abenakyo, who is the reigning Miss World Africa said teenage pregnancies is hindering girls from reaching their full potential.

Kagasa disclosed how teenage pregnancies affected members of her family including cousins and aunties. She said young people need to be grounded in their beliefs to achieve their goals.

"Do not turn to drugs and alcohol to relieve life pressures, turn to a reliable support system, in family and friends." she said.

UNFPA Country Representative Alain Sibenaler said having the beauty queens share their stories is powerful in shaping the lives of young people who look up to them.

The Miss Uganda Foundation will be moving to different parts of the country with the beauty queens to raise awareness and fight teenage pregnancies.