This archive report was first published on 15 November 2019.
On November 13, 2019, 139 countries had entered the Miss World competition, but for Maria Wavinya, Miss World Kenya 2019, her focus was on bringing the title to Kenya.
Wavinya's journey to the top was not without its challenges. She lost her mother at the age of 12 and had to relocate from her home in Mombasa to live with her family upcountry.
Despite this setback, Wavinya persevered and went on to win the Miss World Kenya title, beating out other contestants, including those who had previously defeated her in the Nyandarua Tourism Contest.
"I believe as I go to London I have the support of every Kenyan. I believe I am going to take the Miss World crown. Who says it's impossible? Who says Miss Kenya will never take the Miss World Crown?" Wavinya said during a farewell party organized in her honour at Lake Olbolosatt Resort Park in Nyandarua County.
Wavinya's determination to succeed is evident in her inspiring speech, where she challenged Kenyans to support her in her quest for the Miss World title.
As she prepares to represent Kenya in the Miss World competition, Wavinya is counting on Kenyans to vote for her to give her an extra boost in her quest for the title.
Her participation in the contest will also grant her an opportunity to sell Kenya and Nyandarua as the ultimate tourist destinations.
Wavinya's mentor and sponsor, Ashleys Kenya Limited Chief Executive Officer Ms Terry Mungai, is optimistic that Wavinya will bring the crown home after this year's 69th edition of Miss World pageant.
