July 23, 2013—-This year’s dual African scholarship pageant was unique in many aspects. Nigerian contestant Anthony Nweke and Nanie Memeh, who represented both Nigerian & Liberia were chosen out 14 contestants vying for the crown. Nanie Memeh (24) comes from a dual African cultural background. She strongly believes in working on empowering fellow Africans of all ages in the Diaspora to embrace their culture and encourages them to live right. She has two Bachelor’s Degrees; Political Science and Law & Justice, a Fashion Marketing Certificate and is currently concluding her Masters in International business. Her African Inspired Fashion line was featured at the ‘Vogue to Africa’ Fashion show in Arlington Texas the night before the pageant.
Anthony Nweke (23) on the other hand hails from Enugu, Nigeria. He is a graduate of the University of Houston with a degree in Biology and minor in health. He is currently in medical school. About 350 attendees witnessed Africa at its best as the young men & women showed off their talents, swimwear/fitness with their African flags as wraps, Traditional Attire from their country and evening gowns while the men got an opportunity to parade in designer Suits courtesy of Lokey Zee of Blackbird Jeans.
The night climaxed with the top 5 finalist in the Q & A category which left the crowd on the edge of their seats. The event featured dynamic performances by South Sudanese artist Pay Johaanes, audience interactive drum beats by Baba Kwasi and Afro Hip Hop dance group Dtwon Fellas.
The first annual Face of Change Award went to Etalemahu Fikre Taddesse, founder of Ethiopian Women’s Organization and was presented by UN Ambassador Robert Van Lierop. Other winners of the night were Amna Millewa representing South Sudan as 4th runner up,Valentine Waithera representing Kenya as 3rd runner up, Naomi Kadira representing Zimbabwe as the 2nd runner up and Stella Amarachi Osondu representing Nigeria as 1st runner up.
In the Men’s category, Ban Bandak Lam Lul came in 2nd runner up and Chuks Ihediwa as 1st runner up. Other awards included Mr.& Miss Community Service -Elizabeth Adanna Opara and Ban lul. Mr. & Miss Photogenic – Naomi Kadira and Chuks Ihdewia. Mr. & Miss Congeniality – Willy Wilfrande representing and Ban Lul.
Judges included; Isis Brantley, Kausha founder of Helping Hands, Inc Global Center, Jennifer Onwumere; CEO of Jengerbread Marketing and Zeddie Lokey designer for Blackbird Jeans.
SUPPORT CREDITS: Big Chune Radio, JD Media, Sauti Zetu Show, Trendy Africa Magazine and Eai Photographer.
SPONSORS: Couture Afric, End Times Harvest Productions, NAFCA, Third World.
For more information or interested in sponsoring/booking Ms Nanie Memeh or Mr. Anthony Nweke throughout this year as the reigning queen & king please contact Nana Osei ( 903) 689 3318
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