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Raised in Nigeria, Ms. Mfonobong Essiet is an energetic and multifaceted 21 year-old Barry University graduate student in the Biomedical Sciences Program, pursuing a future career in cardiac surgery. She produces several community events for promoting HIV/AIDS awareness and Youth Education in the United States and abroad, while serving as the Program Director for The Miami Children Foundation, Inc. She serves as a Runway Model for M.A.& C., Founder & Director of Myztique Modelz, Miss Black & Gold (Tau Delta) '05-'06, Miss Sankofa '05-'06 , Director of the Golden Stars Dance Squad, and has held leadership positions in numerous organizations, which enabled her to return to Nigeria as school staff, and also plan a successful seminar.
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Mfonobong Essiet.
Read more from www.missafricaunitedstates.com
Below is Mfonobong's UGPulse interview with UGPulse Beauty Editor, Pauline Long.
Mfonobong Essiet.
The 2007-2008 Miss Africa Scholarship Pageant Awards
Can you please tell us briefly about your background?
I am 22 years old; daughter of Dr. Fabian Essiet and Mrs. Nseabasi Essiet. I was raised in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria and began schooling at Christ the King at the age of 3. I graduated from high school at the age of 15. I am currently working towards my Masters' in Biomedical Sciences. I have always been active in the American and Nigerian community assisting my fellow peers and those in need, learning from my parents' giving spirit and personal values. Throughout the years, I have focused on effectively spreading HIV/AIDS awareness and providing opportunities for those less fortunate through my involvement in several organizations in Africa and abroad.
What was your drive behind entering this prestigious beauty pageant?
I have chosen to see success, a better society, progression, and so much more positive aspects of life. This pageant would allow me to reach a wider audience as a spokes model in improving our society and building a better sense of community both abroad and here in the U.S.A. Although many people state that they wish to help the community, my words are the truth, and my actions are my proof.
You must have a lot of passion for your country of origin to enter Miss Africa USA, what is it you love most about it?
I love the rich culture and the values that accompany it. I have pledged to Nigeria my country for the past 22 years to be faithful, loyal, and honest, to serve Nigeria with all my strength, to defend her unity, and uphold her honour and glory... so help me God!
What book are you currently reading?
Pathophysiology, Epidemiology, Ethical Foundations Textbooks, and Basic Medical Biochemistry: A Clinical Approach. Funny but true, as school priorities have temporarily taken over leisure reading.
What's the one thing you would never do without?
I would never do without my Father in heaven. Our God is truly an awesome God who is my counselor and my best friend. Without him, I am simply lost.
What are your favourite spots in Africa?
My favourite spots include Obudu Cattle Ranch in Cross River State , Nigeria , Elmina & Cape Coast Castle in Accra , Ghana , and the Mandela Family Museum in Soweto , South Africa . Obudu Cattle Ranch is a relaxing resort, where I rode a horse for the first time and enjoyed the outdoor environment. Visiting the castles, which formerly served as venues for the slave trade, was a humbling experience and one I would like to share. The Mandela Family Museum is Nelson Mandela's old house that provides insight into his life and the genuine history behind the fight for freedom. Through my visit, I acquired valuable information about the past and present status of the South African people.
Mfonobong Essiet.
How would you describe beauty in the eyes of an African woman?
Beauty has no color and no shape. It has many faces but to see true beauty is to look within. In the eyes of an African woman, beauty is not simply physical aspects, but encompasses the body and the soul.
How would you sell Africa as an ambassador to USA and the rest of the world?
Africa, my home, is not only a location on a map. It is a culturally diverse, very exquisite, and physically immense continent. African people have a strong sense of hospitality and such a rich history that amazes most. Our traditions in various African nations may seem extraordinarily different but one can easily find similarities with their own culture and see our unity in our values.
What are your inspirations and what do you aspire to be?
My inspirations range from past experiences, newspaper clippings, and various people. However, my most prominent inspiration is my mother. Her strength, her wisdom, her love, and her kindness have helped me to grow in ways I thought impossible. My intentions are to become a cardiac surgeon and serve as a community activist, who promotes proper healthcare and open clinics to provide more efficient services at home, Africa.
Why do you think you should be crowned Miss Africa United States?
I continuously travel to parts of Africa hosting programs and seminars, but the opportunity to represent all African countries, building unity through diversity, and promoting positive & effective programs and services, would be incredible! It is truly an opportunity to be able to share with the world: "Africa is beautiful, Africa is home!" and also to share with fellow Africans that we can initiate changes to make a tremendous impact.
Have you got any beauty tips you would like to share with UGPulse readers?
Rub Vaseline on your feet to keep them from drying out or hardening. I learned that one from my mother!
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