A 23-year-old resident of Adamawa State, who represented Malgwi Local Government Area (LGA) of the state in the just-concluded Mr and Miss Adamawa Icon contest, Franca Amos, has emerged the winner of the beauty pageant.

The 23-year-old beauty queen contested alongside over 100 participants from the 21 LGAs in Adamawa and clinched the coveted title of Miss Adamawa Icon.

The grand finale of the contest was held on Sunday at the Ahmadu Ribadu Multipurpose Hall in Adamawa. It was organised by Limelight Worldwide Event Managers and had notable commissioners and politicians from the state in attendance.

In an interview with The Guardian, Amos said clinching the title has been a lifelong dream, and she was grateful to be crowned Miss Adamawa Icon.

“Since I was a young girl, I admired women who used their beauty for a purpose. I always wanted to be a queen who does not just wear a crown, but one who carries her people with her.

“I felt incredibly grateful, humbled and emotional. It was more than just a win. It was a dream come true and a platform to make a difference. I saw the crown as not just a reward but a responsibility,” Amos told The Guardian.

Speaking on her plans after winning the contest, Amos said she will launch awareness campaigns against female children street hawking and also promote education and empowerment for girls.

Amos also advised other females who aspire to be beauty queens not to relent in their dreams.

“Be yourself, prepare well and let your heart lead the way. Pageantry is not just about looks. It is about impact, voice and vision. Stay confident and kind.

“You are powerful, you are worthy. Don’t let your background limit your dreams. With courage, purpose and education, you can rise and shine. If I can do it, so can you. Inspire yourself,” she added.