Chantou Kwamboka, the reigning Miss World Kenya, has embarked on a journey to represent Kenya at the 71st Miss World Festival in India.
According to updates shared on the Miss World Kenya Instagram page, Chantou arrived safely in India, marking the beginning of an exciting chapter in her pageantry career.
Upon her arrival on February 19, Chantou shared her experiences through photos with fellow Miss World contestants on social media, expressing her honour in paying tribute to Mahatma Gandhi.
"It was an honour to pay tribute to the Great Mahatma Gandhi. I've grown up reading about him and his philosophies. I was privileged to join my fellow sisters from around the world in a beautiful ceremony to pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi this morning. It was great to embrace the spirit of peace and unity, while standing together in reverence for Gandhi's enduring legacy," she wrote.
In a statement on the official Miss World website titled 'Road to the 71st Miss World begins,' Chantou conveyed her excitement about representing Kenya. "I am very excited to represent my country Kenya ?? at the 71st Miss World competition in India. Put my name in God's ears. Be sure to follow on the journey, Kenya to the world. Hurrah!"
A graduate of Maseno University with a degree in Medical Bio-Technology, Chantou hails from Turkana County. Beyond her academic achievements, she is also known for her work as a model, catwalk coach, and actor. Passionate about environmental conservation, Chantou founded "Project Eden" and hosts a podcast dedicated to it.
The 71st Miss World Festival, hosted in India, marks a significant moment as the event returns to the country after 28 years. This year's festival is a celebration of female achievement and empowerment, with participants from across the globe.
Chantou's journey to the Miss World title was crowned on December 10, 2022, at a glamorous event held at the Two Rivers Mall, where she emerged victorious among other talented contestants. Following her win, Chantou expressed her gratitude and excitement for the opportunities ahead.
"I'm happy, blessed, grateful, and highly favored... This is truly a dream come true. I am honoured to be your new Queen. May God bless and oversee this new chapter... With great power comes great responsibility... I'm committing to my society, my organization, my country, and the world to be of service and to truly make our planet better than it is," she stated.
Miss World, established in 1951, is the oldest-running international pageant. It promotes "Beauty With A Purpose," focusing on how beauty can serve as a platform for change, aligning with Chantou Kwamboka's aspirations and endeavours as she takes on the global stage.