The Ghana National Theatre glittered with anticipation on a Saturday night as it hosted the grand finale of Miss Musilimah Ghana 2024, an annual beauty pageant organized by Cruiz House Events. This wasn’t just a celebration of outward beauty; it was a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of culture, religion, education, hope, and entertainment. The event, a beacon of empowerment for young Muslim women, drew a diverse audience, from community leaders and philanthropists to fashion icons and families nationwide. They came to witness these young women showcase their inner radiance, intellect, and commitment to positive change.
The competition transcended the traditional beauty pageant format. Each contestant stepped onto the stage not just to dazzle in elegant attire but to articulate their vision for a better world. They presented on topics close to their hearts, encompassing critical issues such as youth empowerment, women’s health, and the importance of Islamic education. Crucially, they didn’t stop at mere rhetoric; they outlined concrete plans and actionable steps to bring their projects to fruition, demonstrating a commitment to tangible impact. This blend of eloquence, passion, and practicality set Miss Musilimah Ghana apart as a platform for fostering future leaders and change-makers.
Beyond the presentations, the evening was a rich tapestry of cultural expression. The stage came alive with traditional dances, recitations of cherished verses from the Quran and Hadith, and dynamic entrepreneurial pitches. These performances were not mere interludes; they were integral to the competition, showcasing the diverse talents and the rich cultural heritage of the contestants. This multifaceted approach ensured that Miss Musilimah Ghana was not simply a beauty pageant but a celebration of the holistic development of young Muslim women.
The culmination of this electrifying night arrived with the announcement of the winner: Insiya Mohammed, a 19-year-old dynamic force for change hailing from Bawku and representing the Bissa tribe. Her articulate responses, coupled with her community-focused project proposals, resonated deeply with the judges. Insiya was crowned Miss Musilimah Ghana 2024, a title that brought not only a coveted crown and a cash prize but also a wealth of opportunities to make a real difference. She also received various gifts from sponsors, including electrical appliances, symbolizing the support and encouragement she would receive in her future endeavors.
Insiya’s victory was shared with two exceptional runners-up: Asmau Abdul Wakil, representing the Kotokoli tribe, as the first runner-up, and Hamdiya Issifu, representing the Dagomba tribe, as the second runner-up. The journey to the finale had been rigorous and rewarding for all the contestants. Over the preceding months, they had engaged in leadership training, honed their entrepreneurial skills through workshops, and actively participated in community engagement activities and charitable projects. These experiences had equipped them with the tools and confidence to interact effectively with diverse individuals and prepare them for the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead.
Cruiz House Events, the driving force behind Miss Musilimah Ghana, envisions a future brimming with possibilities for young Muslim women. CEO Ms. Hawa Alidu highlighted the significance of creating opportunity-driven platforms, a key motivation for this year’s event. This commitment led to the elimination of public voting, a factor that Ms. Alidu believed could sometimes hinder progress. Looking ahead, plans are already in motion for community programs spearheaded by the contestants, focusing on education, mentorship, and charitable work across Ghana. The organizers are also actively discussing the return of the pageant in 2025, promising an even more impactful experience for future participants. Ms. Alidu expressed deep gratitude to the event sponsors, whose support was crucial to the success of the event. She also extended thanks to the special guests, judges, chiefs, community enthusiasts, and families who traveled from near and far to share in this memorable occasion.
For Insiya Mohammed and her fellow queens, the journey is just beginning. Their roles as role models and ambassadors extend beyond the stage, carrying them across Ghana and beyond. They will engage in community-building initiatives, inspiring young Muslim women to embrace their identities, recognize their leadership potential, and become active agents of positive change in their communities. This is not merely the end of a competition; it is the launch of a movement, empowering a generation of young Muslim women to shape a brighter future for themselves and for Ghana.
