Hasset Dereje: From Self-Doubt to Miss World Africa
Ethiopia's Hasset Dereje overcame self-doubt to become the first runner-up at Miss World 2025 and earn the title Miss World Africa. Her achievement symbolizes new representation for Ethiopia on the global stage. As a student of chemical engineering, she advocates for changing global perceptions about Africa.
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Hasset Dereje, a 19-year-old from Ethiopia, credits the Miss World pageant with helping her overcome self-doubt. Recently crowned as the first runner-up in the Miss World 2025 contest and as Miss World Africa, Dereje achieved a historical milestone as the first Ethiopian to reach such heights in the competition.
Sharing the emotional highs and lows of her journey, Dereje admitted that self-doubt was her greatest challenge. However, the support and love from her fellow African contestants provided her with the strength she needed. Currently studying chemical engineering, she also advocates for community initiatives in Ethiopia.
Dereje's victory is celebrated across Africa, marking a new era of cultural representation. She intends to use her platform to change global perceptions about Africa's rich culture, innovation, and resilience. Open to exploring the arts, she expressed interest in possibly entering the entertainment industry to inspire young African girls.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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