Exclusive: Mitchelle Daka On Becoming Uganda’s First-Ever Miss Universe

In this exclusive interview, Mitchelle Daka, Uganda’s first-ever Miss Universe, opens up about what it means for her to be crowned her country’s first-ever Miss Universe and why she’d use her platform and access for important courses in her country through fashion, advocacy platforms, and podcasting.

Enjoy the exclusive conversation below!

Congratulations on making history as Uganda’s first-ever Miss Universe! How has it felt since that moment?

Honestly, I was in complete shock. I felt overwhelmed and incredibly honoured. The competition was incredibly strong, and every single girl was amazing, so I knew it could have gone in so many different directions. To be the one standing there with the crown was surreal.

But more than anything, I felt a tremendous sense of responsibility because I understand what this means for my country. I am the face of Uganda. I am Ugandan. I represent what people may not always see when they look at my country, and I carry the stories, hopes and spirit of the people who call Uganda home.

That responsibility is something I don’t take lightly.

Tell us about a moment with the other finalists like Kimberly that really stuck with you

Kimberly and I had a moment around pre-judging that really stayed with me. My roommate had locked me out of our room, and I didn’t have the card, so I went upstairs to Kimberly’s room because we were staying in the same villa. I made myself comfortable, sat on the bed and plugged my phone in to charge. Faith was there, Kimberly was there, and Shiba was sitting beside me.

At some point, Kimberly and I started talking, and I said to her, “I think if I wasn’t rooting for myself, I’d be rooting for you.”

I genuinely think she is one of the sweetest people in the world. I think the world is not…