Miss Tourism Oromia: Fostering Cultural Ambassadors and Tourism Advocates
The Miss Tourism Oromia pageant is much more than a traditional beauty contest; it is a strategic initiative aimed at empowering young women to become ambassadors of tourism in Oromia. Since its inception, the pageant has been organized four times, with the primary goal of raising awareness about the region’s rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and tourism potential among the youth and the wider society.
Each year, the pageant attracts a diverse group of contestants from across Oromia, all of whom are passionate about promoting their region. These young women undergo a rigorous selection process that includes various stages of competition, such as cultural presentations, public speaking, and interviews. The contestants are evaluated not only on their physical appearance but also on their knowledge of Oromia’s tourism assets, their communication skills, and their ability to represent the region on a national and international stage.
The winners of Miss Tourism Oromia, such as Halima Abdulshekur (2021), Hawi Matewos (2022), and Mahder Fekadu (2023), have become prominent figures in the tourism sector. They play a crucial role in promoting Oromia’s tourism resources through their public appearances, media engagements, and participation in national and international events. These ambassadors help to elevate the region’s profile by showcasing its unique attractions, such as its vibrant culture, historical sites, and breathtaking landscapes.
Moreover, the Miss Tourism Oromia pageant serves as an important platform for social change. It empowers young women to take on leadership roles in their communities and become advocates for tourism development. The pageant encourages them to use their voices to highlight the importance of preserving cultural heritage, promoting sustainable tourism practices, and fostering community engagement in tourism initiatives.
The pageant also contributes to the broader goal of creating a positive image of Oromia, both within Ethiopia and abroad. By promoting the region’s tourism potential through the voices of young women, the Miss Tourism Oromia pageant helps to attract more visitors, generate economic opportunities, and enhance the overall development of the tourism sector in Oromia.
