Miss Victoria Udoka, a 9-year-old primary five pupil, has emerged winner of the 2016 Face of Hope Kids Beauty Pageant, an initiative of Face of Hope Foundation.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the young Udoka was crowned winner amidst other 13 contestants at the event held on Saturday night at the Sheraton Hotels, Abuja.
She will serve as “Ambassador of Hope”, reaching out to less-privileged children during her one-year reign.
Besides, 6-year-old David Nwoga was also crowned as “King of Hope” to represent the males and to work with the new queen in the humanitarian outreaches of the Foundation.
In her remark, the little queen Victoria Udoka, pledged commitment towards making her reign a success in reaching out to vulnerable children in the society.
“I am very excited I won the crown, and I promise not to waste this opportunity given to me by Face of Hope Foundation.
“I will work hard to make sure that children who have no food to eat or good clothes to wear are cared for.”
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that it was an evening of fun, fashion and entertainment for children, parents and guardians who turned out in their numbers to witness this year’s edition of the annual children pageant.
The Face of Hope Foundation is an NGO that empowers and reaches out to less privileged children through the provision of educational materials, clothing, food items and medical care.
Earlier, Mrs Grace Ojo, the founder Face of Hope Foundation, explained that the pageant was aimed at creating awareness and exposing privileged children to the plight of the less privileged.
“This is to imbibe in them a culture of reaching out to help the needy where ever they are.
“The little Queen and little King will serve as Ambassadors of Hope, focusing on encouraging other kids to take interest in helping the less privileged and as well encourage their parents to do same.
“Our major aim is to give back to the society and to inculcate in our kids the spirit and nature of giving at an early age,’’ she said.
However, she lamented the increasing numbers of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the country due to the insurgency in the North Eats, urging government and well-meaning Nigerians to support the foundation.
The 2016 edition of the pageant also featured an exhibition of clothing designed by Grazee Stitches, an Abuja-based fashion line known for simple but stylish male, female and kid’s designs.
Young male and female runway models showcased various styles of designs during the night.
Ojo, who is also the Creative Director and CEO of Grazee Stitches, said the exhibition was geared towards curbing growing western influences on Nigerian children at the expense of our culture.
“Our children need to imbibe Nigerian culture in dressing as against the overwhelming influence of the West by appreciating our uniqueness.
“The latest ready-to-wear fashion trends for both male, females, adults and children are all available,’’ she explained.
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