Wellness With Her Club

In this edition of 7 Questions With Her, we speak with Miss Alison Mary Akello, a proud representative of Uganda at the Miss Tourism Africa competition happening in Lagos, Nigeria. Hailing from Eastern Uganda, she shares insights into her journey, the beauty of her region, her thoughts on African culture, and the empowering message she carries for young women across the continent.

1. Miss Akello, you are representing Uganda on the international stage at the Miss Tourism Africa competition. How does it feel to carry the pride of your country, especially as a woman from Eastern Uganda?

Coming from the land of the wise is really amazing and it has given me the courage to change what people in the Eastern Region think about women, carrying the flag of Uganda to the whole of Africa is an honor that I do not take for granted. When I got picked to represent Uganda, I was in shock because this definitely comes with pressure but so far the journey has been really amazing and hopefully I will bring the crown home.

2. What inspired you to participate in Miss Tourism Uganda last year where you emerged as the 2nd Runner Up Miss Tourism Uganda, and how has that experience prepared you for the Miss Tourism Africa competition in Nigeria?

I actually  didn’t start by applying for Miss Tourism Uganda, as a child I have always loved pageants and I had an Auntie that really saw the potential in me but because of the different ideas people have about pageants it took me time to actually apply but when I saw the chance to learn about my culture, I didn’t take it for granted and I really appreciate every step I have taken in the space of pageantry and what I have managed to do so far.

3. As a black beauty and an ambassador for African culture and heritage, how do you use your platform to challenge stereotypes and showcase the diversity of Uganda and Africa to the world?

Today compared to long ago, people now appreciate the beauty of black women. I have been bullied before for how I look like and it killed me inside as it took a big part of my confidence but I learned to live with it and use this story to inspire other people to appreciate who and what they are and hopefully with this platform, I have been able to reach as many young ladies who can look at me as a role model that they can always remember to love themselves.

4. Tourism is an integral part of Uganda’s identity. What unique aspects of your region, Eastern Uganda, do you think deserve more global attention, and how do you plan to highlight them in your journey?

The Eastern region is an amazing part of the country. Some people think it may not have so many natural resources to showcase but we have the world’s largest caldera on mountain Elgon as well as the Source of the River Nile and besides this Eastern Uganda is blessed with diverse cultures from different tribes like the embalu, Asapan and many more. These are things the world needs to see more and appreciate about Eastern Uganda that is why am currently working with Ateker museum to showcase this beauty and also being the youth minister for culture in teso has given me the opportunity to organize with the cultural institution the first ever Ateker reunion that will showcase the beauty of our culture and tradition.

5. What challenges have you faced in the competition so far, and how have they helped you grow as a person and as a representative of your country?

So far, the competition is amazing. I am learning more everyday and having fun. I see myself leaving this competition as a better person and I am taking each opportunity to learn more and grow skills.

6. As someone pushing the limits of what it means to be a woman from Uganda and Africa, what message do you have for young African women who aspire to achieve greatness on both local and international platforms?

This world is ours to live in and we must do that to the best of our abilities, be the change that everyone is looking for. 

But majorly be very patient and I know this may sound cliché but patience pays; whatever is meant for you will surely come to you.  “Do Not Forget to pray” it’s the most important aspect of our daily lives.

7. Looking beyond the competition, how do you envision using your influence to further tourism, culture, and female empowerment both in Uganda and across Africa?

Coming for Miss Tourism Africa has given me the opportunity to widen my scope and of course my work doesn’t stop. It’s still going to continue and hopefully it grows beyond bounds and we see the entire Africa appreciating tourism and culture as we are on this journey to discovering how important tourism is in our economies.