Prior to the Olympic Games, regions such as Central, the North and the East of Uganda were being praised as the only true ambassadors of the country.
Memes on social media platforms made fun of the Bakiga, in what was comical and rib-cracking, nonetheless. However, that trend was not going to hold long.
On a global stage, the strong and hardworking tribe largely based in the Southwestern region was not being talked about.
Amidst tales of sportsmanship, medals, triumph and victory, was a discussion that the Banyakigezi could not contribute to at the moment.
But as the clock ticked, finally on the 3rd of August, Natasha Nyonyozi, 23, from Kabale District was crowned as the new Miss Uganda.
The beauty from Kigezi region showcased her strongest skills to beat 27 contestants from all regions of Uganda, at the Sheraton Hotel gardens.
This was in an event that was a spectacular display of true Ugandan beauty, cultural diversity, and entertainment, from traditional dances to contemporary performances.
According to the organizers, it is a celebration of not only physical beauty, but also intelligence, compassion and cultural pride of Ugandan women.
True to purpose, Nyonyozi proved to the judges that she is charismatic, elegant, compassionate, inspiring, passionate, poised, confident and most of all intelligent.
Born and raised in Kyonyo, Kamuganguzi near Katuna, Kabale district, the beauty, in her remarks to the media, hopes to continue being a voice for teenage mothers, young girls with no access to education, and championing sexual and reproductive health.
As her name goes, ‘Nyonyozi’, indeed is a star.
Congratulations Natasha Nyonyozi!