By Kestér Kenn KLOMEGÂH
In a fiercely competitive Miss Africa-Russia contest, which took place at the end of September 2025, Michealina Mary Stampoulous Dankwa, a 28-year-old from Ghana, was crowned the winner. Nevertheless, she credited her impressive win to the significant encouragement, support, and assistance provided by the Ghanaian community in Russia. Full of enthusiasm and appreciation, Michealina Dankwa gave this exclusive interview to our reporter, Kestér Kenn KLOMEGÂH, in Moscow.Here are the interview passages:
What was your most significant difficulty while competing in this Miss Africa-Russia competition?
Michealina Dankwa: One significant difficulty was organizing and practicing through the internet since my volunteers were located in Moscow while I am based in Ufa. Another issue was gathering votes and support from various countries within a limited timeframe. However, every challenge also reinforced my determination and helped me develop resilience.
By the way, what motivated you to enter the competition?
Michealina Dankwa: My primary motivation was to present Ghana on a global level and demonstrate our culture, beauty, and strength. I also aimed to leverage this opportunity to bring attention to my initiative, "Different, Not Broken," which promotes inclusion for children with special needs.
Could you provide our audience with details about the competition?
Michealina Dankwa: Miss Africa-Russia is a cultural and diplomatic competition that unites African women living in Russia, highlighting their background, abilities, and potential for leadership. It goes beyond just a beauty contest; it serves as a link between different communities. Participants stand for their specific African nations and take part in various categories like talent, traditional clothing, designer outfits, and public speaking.
Which other African citizens competed against you?
Michealina Dankwa: I participated with remarkable women from nations including Haiti, Angola, Nigeria, Kenya, Namibia, and South Sudan. Each one contributed their unique culture, skills, and background, enhancing the competition through rich diversity and shared inspiration.
Why was it known as the Africa-Russia dance competition?
Michealina Dankwa: It is known as the Miss Africa-Russia pageant since it takes place in Russia and is exclusively for African women residing or studying in the country. It does not accept Russian-national participants; instead, it highlights African cultures within Russia and seeks to enhance cultural connections between the two groups.
Do you believe the jury's decision was just in the final choice?
Michealina Dankwa: Indeed, I think the jury was just. Each competitor was evaluated not only for her appearance, but also for how effectively she embodied her nation and conveyed her perspective.
What were the key factors that influenced their decision-making process?
Michealina Dankwa: The assessment went beyond appearance, as mentioned earlier, and incorporated factors such as genuine expression, cultural depiction, grace, skill, and communication abilities.
What guidance and lessons would you like to share with your fellow women?
Michealina Dankwa: My suggestion is straightforward: never hesitate to leave your comfort zone. Have faith in yourself, as self-assurance and direction are your most valuable attributes. Additionally, always keep in mind that genuine beauty emerges from helping others, kindness, and being true to yourself.
What would you prefer readers to be aware of regarding you, such as your family history, age, and occupation?
Michealina Dankwa: My name is Michealina Mary Stampoulous Dankwa, a 28-year-old woman from Ghana. I was raised in a tight-knit Ghanaian family that emphasizes service, integrity, and drive. I am currently pursuing studies in International Relations in Ufa, Russia. I am dedicated to leveraging my platform to support individuals whose voices are frequently overlooked, especially those with special needs, including people on the autism spectrum.
Have you, in reality, boosted Ghana's visibility on the global platform?
Michealina Dankwa: Certainly. From my royal entrance in traditional kente, symbolizing Northern Ghana, to my skilled performance emphasizing inclusivity, I brought Ghana with me onto that stage. I think I offered the world a glimpse of Ghana’s cultural depth, strength, and kindness. Winning the crown was not only a personal achievement, but also a triumph for Ghana on the global platform.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
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