Joann Efembe Ene-Ita, the Miss University Nigeria 2010 Queen, is unique for being so passionate about helping the less privileged. In this interview with the Editor, FOLORUNSHO HAMSAT, Joann who spoke on the occasion of her 25th birthday says that wearing the pageant crown did offer her an opportunity to appreciate life the more making her to care more for the lowly in the society. Also, she said she found herself much closer to God in the one-year contract. Excerpts…
What really encouraged you to contest for the crown and did you come out fulfilled?
I contested because I was requested by the former Miss Uniport to represent my university at that pageant, and I thought ‘why not, it would be a privilege’. I asked my mother and she gave her blessing. The rest is history, as they say. Yes, I came out a fulfilled person. It is not every pageant you walk into and come out transformed. This particular pageant I did was a ministry.
How do you feel adding another year?
I have been looking forward to my Big 25. I am so happy and blessed to still be on the path to my glorious destiny. I’m excited to see what this year has stored up for me. I am not where I want to be yet but God has been so wonderful in my life.
Tell us about the success and challenges of your reign as a beauty queen.
Wow! That was a year that can never be forgotten. In fact, my whole transformation started from here. My one year reign was absolutely fabulous. From winning as queen to representing Nigeria for the African pageant and learning new cultures around Africa and making the most of it while traveling round Africa on a tour. I had the privilege of visiting presidents, governors, ministers, senators and other big figures. My 2010 to 2011 reign was simply memorable. And oh, that was the year I gave my life to Christ; challenges? not that I remember.
You have a pet project. Tell us about it.
I have always loved caring for the kids. So knowing there are a lot of street children and orphans in Benue State where the pageant was hosted, I felt I needed to touch more lives there. We visited some of the orphanages and we helped with renovations; from the windows to the doors to the rooms and other needs.
Would you say you are living your dreams?
Life is a process. My baby steps are growing into giants strides. But at the moment I’m so grateful to God for my growth. I have accomplished a lot and still more yet to come.
How would you define fashion?
Fashion is looking good and staying modest. Having a fashion designer as mother has made me to appreciate fashion more. My colour is yellow but I don’t reveal my body parts.
As a beauty queen, what were your challenges with men?
Laughs… Firstly, it is in the pageant contract that as queen, you are not supposed to be in relationship as it is considered a distraction. I signed that contract and I didn’t even have anyone to tell me otherwise. I got so busy there wasn’t any space for men (laughter). Yes, men were coming but only those ready to be preached to, came and left after giving them conditions. .
