Miss World Sierra Leone 2026, Mariyam Lorba Konneh, in a special homecoming welcome press briefing held at the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, expressed heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to the Ministry, Miss Sierra Leone Limited, her benefactors, fans, supporters, and the people of Sierra Leone for their unwavering support throughout her journey to represent the nation on the international stage.
Speaking during a press briefing organised in her honour following her return, Mariyam described her participation as a life-changing experience that was made possible through the collective efforts of government institutions, sponsors, and patriotic Sierra Leoneans both at home and abroad.
She thanked the MTCA, the Miss Sierra Leone Board, and her benefactors for believing in her potential and providing the support necessary for her participation. She also acknowledged the countless messages of encouragement from citizens and fans who followed her progress throughout the competition.
Despite the excitement and prestige surrounding the pageant, Mariyam revealed that the journey was not without challenges. Competing alongside contestants from countries with greater financial resources, stronger institutional support, extensive media exposure, and larger support teams required resilience, confidence, and determination. However, she noted that her commitment to representing Sierra Leone with pride enabled her to overcome those obstacles and stand confidently among her peers on the world stage.
Earlier, welcoming guests, media practitioners, and stakeholders to the event, the Master of Ceremonies, Emmanuel A.B. Turay, emphasised that the occasion went far beyond the celebration of physical beauty.
“Our gathering today is not merely to celebrate beauty, but to celebrate excellence, courage, intelligence, cultural pride, and the remarkable spirit of Sierra Leone. Our queen has carried our flag with dignity and grace, showcasing to the world the beauty, resilience, and immense potential of our beloved nation,” he stated.
Mr. Turay further announced that the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs had taken the decision to confer on Miss World Sierra Leone 2026 the title of Brand Ambassador of the Ministry, in recognition of her outstanding representation of the country and contribution to promoting Sierra Leone’s image internationally.
According to him, the appointment was approved by the Honourable Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Nabeela Farida Tunis, and the official letter of appointment would be formally presented to Mariyam in due course.
In his remarks, the Chairman of Miss Sierra Leone Limited, Adonis Aboud, provided a brief background of the company and explained the process through which Mariyam Lorba Konneh emerged as the country’s representative for the prestigious Miss World competition.
He commended her exemplary conduct and performance throughout the pageant, describing her representation of Sierra Leone as exceptional and inspiring.
“Her representation was excellent and served as a source of motivation to the younger generation of women in Sierra Leone. She demonstrated confidence, intelligence, discipline, and patriotism, making the nation proud,” he noted.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, the Deputy Secretary of the Ministry, Sahr Moses Morsay, also expressed appreciation to Mariyam for her courage, passion, determination, and commitment to projecting a positive image of Sierra Leone before a global audience.
He praised her ability to distinguish herself among contestants from different countries and backgrounds, stressing that her performance had inspired many young Sierra Leoneans.
“I personally followed your participation through and through,” he stated. “Your courage, passion, and motivation to stand tall among your peers made all Sierra Leoneans proud and demonstrated the strength and potential of our young women.”
The event concluded with commendations from government officials, pageant organisers, and supporters, who described Mariyam’s participation as a remarkable achievement and a testament to the talent, resilience, and promise of Sierra Leonean women.
Her successful representation at the international pageant has not only elevated Sierra Leone’s profile on the global stage but has also reinforced the importance of investing in young women as ambassadors of culture, excellence, leadership, and national development.
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