Ninsiima Phoebe and Ruby Nimurungyi Kihembo were crowned Miss and Mr. Teens Kigezi 2024 at an event held on Saturday evening, December 21, 2024, at White Horse Inn in Makanga, Central Division of Kabale Municipality.
Ninsiima, from Rukungiri District, is pursuing her education at Nyamitanga Technical Institute in Mbarara, while Kihembo, a resident of Kabale District, studies at Kabale International School. The duo succeeds the outgoing titleholders, Miss Ashley Ainembabazi and Mr. Norbert Asiimwe.
The event, themed “Recognizing and Appreciating Among Kigezi Youth,” also marked the launch of the 5th Edition of the Kigezi Teens Magazine and celebrated the achievements of outstanding youth and organizations in the region.
The evening featured cultural showcases, creative wear, and music, dance, and drama presentations, with a focus on talent development and environmental conservation.
Speaking at the event, Edwin Nahwera, Chief Executive Officer of Kigezi Teens Magazine, emphasized that the initiative aims to equip the youth with essential skills for transformation and personal growth. He revealed that the contestants participated in a three-day boot camp designed to empower them with knowledge about Kigezi’s culture, tourism, and environment.
Nahwera also commended Prof. Charles Kwesiga, the Executive Director of the Uganda Industrial Research Institute and patron of Kigezi Teens Magazine, for his continued support in hosting and skilling the youth at the institute in Kampala.
Enid Origumisiriza, a Hopeful Woman MP for Kabale District, encouraged the youth to utilize their creativity to improve their lives and to embrace hands-on skills and talents for future success.
Trust Kyomugisha, another Hopeful Woman MP for Kabale District, urged the youth to stay focused and develop their talents, emphasizing their potential to generate income and drive community development.
Joseph Mutebile, a Hopeful MP for Kabale Municipality, applauded the organizers for providing a platform to steer the youth away from harmful vices like alcoholism and smoking.
During the event, the outgoing titleholders, Ashley Ainembabazi and Norbert Asiimwe, shared heartfelt reflections on their journey.
“Being crowned Miss Teens Kigezi 2023 was a life-changing experience. It gave me a platform to explore my potential and inspire fellow youth in Kigezi. I encourage the new titleholders to embrace this opportunity with open hearts, use it to create a positive impact, and always remember to uplift others as you grow,” said Ainembabazi.
“This past year has been an incredible journey of self-discovery and growth. I am grateful for the support I received from the community and the organizers of this platform. To the incoming King and Queen, use this crown not just as a symbol of achievement but as a responsibility to lead, inspire, and make a difference in our region. The future is yours to shape,” added Asiimwe.
The Kigezi Teens Event 2024 showcased the region’s vibrant youth culture, creativity, resilience, and potential for transformation. As the curtains closed, the event left a lasting impact on participants and attendees, highlighting the power of recognizing and nurturing young talent.
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