Uganda's Imat Akelo-Opio and the Quest for Miss Africa USA 2008

The clock is tickling and it's really amazing how time goes by quick, just like that. For the last four months, the selection for representatives toward the 4th Annual Miss Africa USA has brought about some heated debates in the glamorous world of beauty, modelling and fashion fests in the African context.

I have been watching the entire episode with keen interest for the fact that I will be popping up at Jonesboro, Georgia on November 1, the venue of the said event. Meanwhile, going through the call sheet, this year's Miss Africa USA is challenging on many grounds -- most of the delegates, if not all, are professionals in their respective rights and they seem to be living up to the roll call and requirements.

Standing at five-feet-five inches tall and weighing 110lbs, 24-year-old Imat Akelo-Opio who holds a Masters Degree in Clinical Data Management is one of them. She is also an actress, choreographer, singer and activist who has stood for worthy causes. As Miss Uganda USA 2008 and one who has travelled extensively, Imat, who wants to inspire young African women living in the United States stressed about bridging the stereotypical gap that has been a common place thing in our present society. In her own words, she points out:

As Miss Africa USA my aim firstly is to empower Africa as one people. There is power through education, encouragement and unity as one entity. I also aim to abolish the stereotypical idea and to remove the stigma that the world has placed on Africa as helpless, needy and wanting. Instead I will promote and educate the World with the mighty doings of Africa, of who we are, what we stand for and what we as a powerhouse have achieved, of what we are currently achieving and of where we have set our sights for the future of our Motherland.

For sure it's going to be a hell of a show come November 1st, and you bet I will be jumping on the next flight on November 2nd back to the City of Angels to await on a tickling clock for my daughter's birthday and the primetime announcement of president-elect of the United States of America, Senator Barack Obama.

That day, every contestant will be a winner, nevertheless.

Go Africa Go!

Photo courtesy of Miss Africa USA