Since the inaugural Miss World contest lit up the Lyceum Ballroom in London in 1951, the pageant has evolved from a local attraction into a global beacon of empowerment. What began as a one-off event during the Festival of Britain has transformed into the world’s longest-running international beauty pageant, proving that its influence is far more than skin deep.

As the Miss World organization prepares to celebrate its 75th anniversary in Vietnam this year, the spirit of "Beauty With a Purpose"—a motto that has guided the pageant since the early 1970s and raised over $500 million for global charitable causes—remains more relevant than ever.

Since 1972, Beauty With a Purpose has transformed the Miss World pageant into a global humanitarian platform, raising over one billion USD for causes across 142 countries. Inspired by Julia Morley's compassion, contestants engage in projects addressing issues like healthcare, education, child nutrition, disaster relief, and gender violence. Recent events, such as Miss World 2025 in India, highlight the ongoing commitment to social impact. Overall, Beauty With a Purpose empowers women to create meaningful change, emphasizing that true beauty lies in acts of compassion and community support.

A Historic Legacy

The significance of Miss World 2026 lies in its ability to amplify global voices and foster cross-cultural understanding at a time when international cooperation is increasingly important. For many countries—especially across Africa and the Global South—the pageant offers a rare opportunity to highlight national identity, promote tourism, and bring attention to pressing social issues on a worldwide stage. Beyond entertainment, the event serves as a soft-power platform where young women act as ambassadors for change, using their visibility to inspire development initiatives and strengthen global solidarity.

The Miss World stage has witnessed countless unforgettable moments since the crowning of its first winner, Sweden’s Kiki Håkansson, in 1951. Over the decades, the pageant has produced not only icons of grace but also women of profound substance. From Halle Berry’s impactful run in the 1986 competition to the platform launching humanitarian leaders, businesswomen, and activists, Miss World has consistently redefined what it means to be a global ambassador.

Africa Rising: From Representation to Global Influence on the Miss World Stage

African participation in the Miss World contest has steadily grown over the decades, evolving from limited representation in its early years to a strong and influential presence today. Contestants from across the continent now bring diverse cultures, languages, and traditions to the global stage, reshaping perceptions of African beauty and identity.

Several African countries have achieved remarkable success in the competition, with active participation from nations such as South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya earning international recognition. These achievements have not only highlighted individual talent but also elevated Africa’s global cultural visibility, inspiring a new generation of young women to pursue opportunities in modeling, advocacy, and leadership.

Beyond the crown, African contestants often use the platform to champion social causes through the pageant’s “Beauty with a Purpose” initiative. Many have focused on issues such as education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment, turning their participation into a vehicle for meaningful change across the continent and reinforcing Africa’s voice in global humanitarian efforts.

Ethiopia Crowns New Miss World Representative as National Pageant Marks 24th Edition

As the rest of the globe, Africans also currently are preparing to the upcoming contest in Vietnam. As member of the global community Ethiopia is writing its own remarkable history on this global stage. The country’s momentum reached a historic peak at the 72nd Miss World Festival in Hyderabad, India, in 2025, where Hasset Dereje captured the title of 1st Runner-Up and Miss World Africa. Her achievement remains the highest placement an Ethiopian representative has ever secured, a milestone that paved the way for a new generation of aspirants.

Miss World Ethiopia was held for the 24th time in Addis Ababa on Wednesday, bringing together contestants from across the country in a celebration of beauty, culture, and national identity.

The event was attended by State Minister of Culture and Sports, Nebiyu Baye, who emphasized the importance of beauty and cultural representation in promoting Ethiopia’s heritage on the global stage. He noted that the competition serves as a platform for showcasing the country’s traditions, values, and identity to the world.

A total of 50 contestants participated, with 25 advancing after initial rounds. Following a highly competitive and vibrant final, Ruth Yirgalem emerged as the winner of the 2026 Miss World Ethiopia title, earning the prestigious crown.

As the newly crowned titleholder, Ruth Yirgalem will represent Ethiopia at the global Miss World competition in the United States, where she will compete with contestants from around the world.

The pageant continues to play a significant role in positioning Ethiopia on the international stage—offering young women a platform to serve as cultural ambassadors while promoting national pride, diversity, and global engagement.

Her victory is more than a title; it is a reflection of the resilience and ambition that Ethiopian women continue to project to the world. Hasset Dereje, showing the true spirit of sisterhood, shared her support for her successor on Instagram: “Truly well deserved! I believe she truly embodies resilience… May your reign be blessed.”

Ruth Yirgalem is a multifaceted leader whose impact extends beyond the runway. As the founder of Crown of Taytu, an initiative centered on Ethiopia’s iconic coffee heritage, Ruth blends cultural preservation with entrepreneurial spirit. Her journey to the crown—documented through intense challenge events, sash ceremonies, and advocacy campaigns across Addis Ababa—showcases her dedicated preparation and natural poise.

Looking Toward the 75th Anniversary

As Ruth prepares to represent Ethiopia at the upcoming 75th Miss World Festival in Vietnam, scheduled from August 9 to September 5, 2026, she steps onto a world stage defined by three-quarters of a century of history.

Her participation is not just a personal achievement; it is a vital chapter in Africa's ongoing narrative of progress. Armed with a clear vision, deep-rooted culture, and a commitment to advocacy, Ruth Yirgalem is ready to shine with Africa. The world watches with anticipation as she brings one of Africa's vibrant spirit to Vietnam, continuing the legacy of beauty combined with purpose.