Princesse Issie, Miss Cameroon, at the Miss Universe Cultural evening in El Salvador, displayed cultural pride and empowerment by showcasing a national costume that transcended mere fashion. The ensemble, a collaborative effort between Indonesian illustrators, designers from El Salvador, and the vision of Miss Universe, the Miss Cameroon committee, and Princesse Issie herself, aimed to celebrate the essence of woman empowerment.
Speaking about the significance of the national costume, Princesse Issie remarked, “The national costume was revisited by both Indonesian illustrators and designers from El Salvador and had to represent mutual visions of Miss Universe, the Miss Cameroon committee, and I, which are essentially focused on woman empowerment.”
The choice to honour women in the national costume was deliberate, with Princess Issie expressing a desire to demonstrate the positive impact of woman empowerment, not only for Cameroon but for the entire continent. She hopes to inspire young girls who may not yet believe in themselves or their potential to change and impact the world.
The national costume itself is a tribute to prominent Cameroonian women who have broken barriers and paved the way for others. Among the notable figures featured are Cameroon’s First Lady Chantal Biya, Delphine Tsanga (the first female minister in Cameroon), Christine Njeuma (the first female pilot in Cameroon and Central Africa), Gladys Ejomi (the first female doctor in Cameroon), Therese Sita Bella (the first movie director in Cameroon), and Amougou Solange (the founder of the Miss Cameroon beauty pageant).
“These women represent the strength and empowerment that Cameroonian women need to create a great impact in the country,” Princesse Issie affirmed.
The choice to spotlight these trailblazing women in the national costume serves as a powerful statement on the resilience, achievements, and potential of Cameroonian women. Princesse Issie’s tribute is not just a celebration of culture and beauty but a poignant reminder of the transformative power of women’s empowerment on a national and global scale. As the Miss Universe pageant unfolds, Princess Issie’s national costume stands as a beacon of inspiration and recognition for the remarkable women who have shaped Cameroon’s history and continue to inspire future generations.
Washira Helene contributed to this article.
