By DOH JAMES SONKEY with reports from USA
22 years old Cameroonian born Corrine Missi has been crowned as the 2017/2018 Miss Africa USA after beating her opponents at the 12th edition of the highly competitive contest organized last November 11, 2017 at Bowie State University, Maryland USA by Lady Kate Atabong Ndi from Cameroon.
Corrine Missi was elected by a panel of 7 judges both Africans and African Americas from varied backgrounds at the contest that attracted very beautiful, intelligent and savvy delegates from across the United States with origins traced to Africa.
Chaired by Oil & Gas Lawyer, Author of ‘BIG BARRELS’ NJ Ayuk and Former Beauty Queen Dr. Aretha Makia, the final phase featured some 14 delegates from different countries after several others were eliminated from preliminary screenings.
Corrine Missi emerged overall best after challenging her opponents in African Tradition and Culture, Talent, Public Speaking, Fashion and a Showcase of their National Colors in very beautiful costumes that reflected the colours of Africa.
Organized under the theme “One Night in Africa” the event showcased the beautiful and diverse African culture as the girls also used the platform to raise awareness on pertinent issues that affect Africa today.
Born in Yaoundé, Cameroon, the 22 year old graduate in Mathematics and Business Management from Spring Hill College in Mobile Alabama, USA is 6ft tall, seasoned Athlete, plays Basketball and ran Track and Field in College. In her spare time, Corinne enjoys Modeling and reading Books. She will be embarking on a new journey as Miss Africa USA as well as Graduate School to fulfilled her educational and career dreams as well as make a difference in the community.
Corinne is said to be very passionate about the empowerment of women and girls and that is why her platform focuses on the education of the girl child. She quoted Michelle Obama as her role model in life when asked the question on stage because she admires the former USA First Lady’s dedication and commitment in promoting education of children and most especially the girl child. Corinne wants to make a difference and leave a legacy and promises to continue raising the bar set by her predecessor Nereida Lobo who is from Cape Verde.
It is worth noting that Miss Africa USA Organization offers a platform that promotes young women of African descent in the United States and connects Americans to Africa through a beautiful cultural exposition that leaves guests very wowed.