A new chapter in Kenya’s beauty and leadership industry has officially begun following the launch of Miss Universe Kenya under new license holders, Crown Culture Africa.
The organisation, led by National Director Kevin Bellwood, unveiled an ambitious vision aimed at transforming the pageant into a platform for leadership, advocacy and social impact beyond beauty and glamour.
Speaking during the launch event, Bellwood said the competition would focus on nurturing women who can confidently represent Kenya on the global stage while championing meaningful causes in society.
“This is about showcasing the true spirit of Kenya to the world,” Bellwood said. “The crown is a moment of honour, but it is not a measure of success. Our success will be defined by the calibre of women who emerge from this process.”
He said contestants would be trained in public speaking, leadership, emotional intelligence, advocacy, media engagement and personal branding to prepare them for influence both locally and internationally.
“We are not simply selecting a queen. We are shaping ambassadors, investing in futures and redefining what it means to be a modern African woman on the world stage,” he added.
Bellwood noted that the platform would encourage delegates to champion causes such as girl-child education, menstrual health, mental health awareness, environmental sustainability and youth empowerment.
According to the organisers, applications for the competition officially opened on Wednesday through the Miss Universe Kenya website and will close on May 29. National casting is scheduled for June 6, after which 30 contestants will proceed to boot camp training before the finalists are selected.
The grand finale is set for July 25 2026, with the winner expected to represent Kenya at the global Miss Universe competition in Puerto Rico later this year.
Among those present at the launch was Roshanara Ebrahim – Miss Universe Kenya 2021, who described the Miss Universe experience as life-changing and transformative.
“The world is ready now for an African woman who is confident, comfortable in her own skin and able to communicate not only her own story but also the Kenyan and African story,” she said.
Ebrahim welcomed the expanded eligibility criteria introduced by the Miss Universe organisation, noting that women are no longer restricted by age, marital status or motherhood.
“Before, contestants had to be unmarried and there was an age limit. Now you can be married, divorced, widowed or even have children. It appreciates the real journey of a woman,” she said.
She further noted that participating on the global stage comes with both opportunities and responsibilities.
“You are given a global platform and seen as a voice for the people you represent. With that comes power, responsibility and scrutiny, but it is also one of the most magical and life-changing experiences,” Ebrahim added.
Also speaking during the launch, Maggie Wanjiru praised the initiative for creating opportunities for young Kenyan women to grow into influential leaders and professionals.
Crown Culture Africa said this year’s winner will receive a cash prize of KSh1.29 million, fully paid travel to Puerto Rico, accommodation in Nairobi, a motor vehicle, skincare packages and model management opportunities.
Organisers said the relaunch marks the beginning of a new movement focused on representation, national pride and empowering women to lead with confidence, purpose and integrity.
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