Champion Iyanuoluwa Atewogbola, a 21-year-old Zoology student at Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, has been crowned Queen Moremi Ajasoro (QMA) 2024.
The 400-level Osun indigene, who is also a professional makeup artist and model, emerged as the winner during the grand finale held on Sunday, December 1, 2024, at the prestigious Ife Grand Resorts and Leisure in Ile-Ife, Osun State.
As part of her victory, Iyanuoluwa received a cash prize of One Million Naira and a branded car. She plans to use her reign to champion the fight against domestic violence, a cause she is deeply passionate about and committed to addressing.
The event also celebrated other exceptional contestants. The first runner-up and Miss Culture, Adeyeye Damilola Eniola, is a graduate of the College of Health Sciences and Technology, Ijero Ekiti, from Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State. She impressed judges with her strong connection to cultural heritage.
The second runner-up, Oluwajimi Boluwatife Deborah, a 24-year-old fashion entrepreneur, showcased her creativity through thread painting and yarn art. Standing 5’8” tall, she also enjoys sewing, fashion illustration, sightseeing, and hosting.
The third runner-up and Miss Amity, Munirat Babalola, is an Economics student at the National Open University. Originally from Offa, Kwara State, she was celebrated for her exceptional interpersonal skills and camaraderie during the competition.
This year’s pageant, themed “Iwalewa: The Law of Creative Self-Culture,” emphasized the importance of character, charisma, and leadership in addition to beauty. The initiative draws inspiration from the legacy of Queen Moremi Ajasoro, known for her bravery and sacrifice.
In her opening remarks, the QMA Convener and Global Ambassador, Her Royal Majesty Olori Aderonke Ademiluyi Ogunwusi, highlighted the program's broader mission as that which embodies culture, leadership and empowerment.
“This initiative is not just about beauty; it is about empowering women to lead and inspire. His Imperial Majesty, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR Ojaja II, envisioned this platform as a means of shaping future female leaders.”
In her keynote address, Chief (Mrs.) Olufunso Amosun, the Yeye Moremi of the Source, praised Olori Aderonke's efforts in sustaining the legacy of Queen Moremi and using the platform to empower young women. She encouraged the participants to see themselves as winners.
“Your courage and participation alone make you winners. The traits of Queen Moremi you’ve acquired during this journey will serve you well. I commend Olori Aderonke for immortalizing the memory of this legendary queen and projecting her legacy on the world stage.”
The QMA pageant is a key event in the annual Edi Festival, which commemorates Queen Moremi Ajasoro's heroic deeds in liberating the people of Ile-Ife from their adversaries. As the new Queen, Iyanuoluwa Atewogbola is set to continue this legacy, advocating for women's rights and addressing critical social issues, particularly domestic violence.
Each winner will receive prizes and opportunities to advance their causes and professional careers. The Queen Moremi Ajasoro Pageant has once again affirmed its position as a platform for cultural pride and female empowerment in Nigeria.
Best cultural pageant ❤️👑the royalty treatment is one of the best thing about themðŸ¤⭐️❤️
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