Miss Hibiscus 2024 Melania Tora expressed that there is no better way to celebrate her recent victory than through gratitude to God. The 24-year-old marked her crowning by spending quality time with her family and attending church, where she reflected on the support she has received during her journey.
In discussing her preparations, Ms. Tora detailed a rigorous approach that involved fasting, prayer, and researching past Hibiscus queens to inform her advocacy initiatives. She highlighted mental health as a core focus, identifying it as a vital issue intertwined with various social challenges, including drug addiction, HIV/AIDS, and domestic violence.
“I’ve faced anxiety and endured a period of depression for much of my life, which might be hard for some to believe,” she shared. “I truly understand what it feels like to be hopeless.”
Ms. Tora praised the camaraderie she found among her fellow contestants and acknowledged the event organizers for their care and attention, despite a few minor hiccups. “I’m definitely headed to Sabeto to celebrate,” she said, expressing her excitement to mark the occasion with her family and look forward to what God has in store for her.