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Summary
Nigeria’s First Advocacy Pageant, organised by Misty Glam Company, made history by blending advocacy, inclusivity, and representation. The night crowned Anita Chidiebube Dike as the first Albinism Advocacy Queen, with Nwoye Blessing as 1st Runner-Up and Olabimpe Ogunyemi as 2nd Runner-Up.
The Grand Finale of Nigeria’s First Advocacy Pageant was more than a contest; it was a movement. Organised by Misty Glam Company, the evening blended powerful advocacy pitches, electrifying performances, and groundbreaking inclusivity moments that challenged stereotypes and redefined representation. It was held on September 13, 2025, in Lagos.
The pageant began with 20 entries, narrowed to 10 finalists between 18 and 50. Their journey included a two-day Advocacy Bootcamp on August 23–24, 2025, where they received training in leadership, public speaking, branding, dance, personal grooming, and confidence. This preparation equipped them not only for the stage but for real-world advocacy beyond the spotlight.
The event kicked off with a green carpet hosted by Dara Oluwatoye and Jessica Hyacinth, followed by the national anthem and prayers. Warm welcome speeches and a group dance performance set the tone for a vibrant evening.
Special guest Tolani Ojuri, Chairperson of the Albinism Association of Nigeria, emphasised the importance of advocacy in addressing discrimination. Contestants showcased their talents, blending artistry with purpose, before gracing the runway in a mini fashion show.
The runway broke barriers by featuring wheelchair models, models with vitiligo, and other unconventional talents, ensuring that the stage reflected the pageant’s mission. Performances and advocacy pitches addressed real issues of discrimination, proving that strength lies not in beauty alone, but in determination and advocacy.
The evening also featured a stirring performance by Fellamanny, an evening wear showcase with a Q&A segment, and a string of awards that celebrated not just beauty, but advocacy and representation.
The pageant was graced by a distinguished panel of judges, each bringing credibility and inspiration through their leadership and advocacy. The panel featured disability rights champion Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal, Miss Nigeria Queen Doris Ogah, filmmaker Ambassador Ada Ossai, Dr. Atinuke Smith, Uri Ngozichukwuka, Elizabeth Adams, Yolani Ojuri, and Natasha Yamala-Aromolaran, embodying inclusivity and empowerment.
The night’s highlight was the crowning of Anita Chidiebube Dike as the first Albinism Advocacy Queen. Anita’s advocacy goal focuses on educating the public about misconceptions surrounding persons with albinism, particularly the harmful stereotypes reinforced by skit makers.
Her victory represents not only her personal triumph but also the collective voice of advocacy for inclusivity, dignity, and representation.
She was awarded a cash prize of N500,000, a digital skills scholarship from Access Tech Innovation, and beauty supplies and gifts worth N3,000,000 from brand sponsors.
The 1st Runner-Up, Nwoye Blessing, was named an Advocacy Ambassador and received N300,000, a digital skills scholarship, and N1,000,000 worth of sponsored products. She also took home the Best Talent Prize of N150,000, adding to her win.
Meanwhile, the 2nd Runner-Up, Olabimpe Ogunyemi, shone as a model and Lush Hair ambassador, taking home N200,000, a digital skills scholarship, and beauty supplies valued at N500,000.
Misty Glam Company expressed heartfelt appreciation to the event partners whose support made the pageant a success. Its founder, Owolabi Mitsurah, announced plans to expand inclusivity initiatives through yearly advocacy-driven pageants and events.
Staying true to its vision as Africa’s first inclusive commercial modelling agency, Misty Glam remains committed to representing models of all ages, skin tones, and body types.
The night concluded with the announcement of winners, a heartfelt speech by Anita Dike, and the cutting of the cake. Guests left inspired, reminded that advocacy and inclusivity must continue beyond the runway, shaping communities and breaking systemic barriers.
