INTERVIEWI joined the beauty pageant to embrace my heritage: Moyinoluwa Awosika, Miss Nigeria UK 2023
1. Could you tell us about your educational background?
I studied Law in the University of Hertfordshire and graduated with a 2:1. In addition, I am a Member of the Institute of Property Management in the UK (MIRPM) having passed a Level 4 Member Exam. I am also PRINCE2 qualified.
2. What inspired you to join a beauty pageant, and was your family in support of it?
Firstly, I wanted to use this platform to inspire young girls and women to embrace their nationality and heritage, whatever it might be. I grew up in Nigeria and moved to the UK when I was 12. It was not always easy to embrace my Nigerian Heritage in a society that did not promote or support the culture. I went as far as changing my Yoruba name to an English one in order to fit into the society I was in. Growing up I realised that there was so much beauty in my culture and I want the next generation to understand this and be better than I was.
Moyinoluwa Awosika on the digital cover of Diaspora Glitz Magazine
3. After winning the Miss Nigeria UK beauty pageant in April 2023, has stardom changed you?
I don’t think it has changed me. I am still the same old me but I will say that it has boosted my confidence a lot more and I am more outspoken about things I am passionate about. I am more enthusiastic to meeting different types of people and a lot more open to opportunities I may have overlooked in the past.
4. What doors will you say stardom has opened for you?
Truthfully, I don’t feel like a star but I do appreciate the different opportunities I am now getting due to my title. I am placed in rooms with influential people and given a voice. I feel like some doors I will like to reach are ajar at the moment but I have the intention to get those doors wide open.
5. Is there any project you are currently working on?
Yes, right now I am working ona few things. Part of this is fundraising for a couple projects: One is a orphanage in Nigeria and the other is to raise funds towards charities empowering young women. I am also looking into creating a mentorship program under the Miss Nigeria UK Foundation called “Sister 2 Sister” – which is aimed at buddying up young girls with Women who are accomplished in different career fields to provide them with the tools and confidence they need to thrive in their chosen careers and in their personal lives. I am so passionate about the next generation of young women as they will have a vital role to play in society and I would love to be a part of helping to shape young minds.
6. What are your plans for 2024?
My plans for 2024 is to kick off the “Sister 2 Sister” mentorship programme mentioned above. Stay tuned! If there is anyone reading this that would love to be a part of this, please reach out.
7. What advice do you have for upcoming beauty queens?
Embrace your individuality and make sure you use your platform to advocate for causes you are passionate about. Stay true to your values and remain teachable but most of all, Enjoy the ride!
