Most girls dream of their white wedding dress; I dream of my Ugandan kwanjula outfit…
Briefly, a kwanjula is the traditional Ugandan wedding ceremony and most women wear traditional gomesi (more on the details in another post). But since one of my hidden talents is transforming clothing into modern African inspired attire, I’m always looking for ways to modernize the gomesi. So when I spent the Labor Day weekend in Philadelphia for the 2012 UNAA (Ugandan North American Association) conference, I was inspired by my fellow Ugandans and especially the Miss UNAA contestants. I loved how they wore Ugandan attire that still showcased their own sense of style.
I believe everyone is beautiful and has a beautiful story, so I was honored to be the official 2012 Miss UNAA photographer and capture these young lady’s inner and outer beauty. I was moved by each contestant’s platform to dream bigger and change the world and Uganda, each in their own way. We spent the morning through afternoon taking photos, and I can’t wait to share all of them in the coming weeks. The ladies are all truly beautiful inside and outside.
Special shout-out to Milcah for organizing a fantastic Miss UNAA 3-day program!
Fierce Ugandan women: Crystal, Sharon, Yvette, Hasifa and Sheila.
Outgoing Miss UNAA 2010 – 2012 Yvette Kibwika has a heart of gold and exemplifies an African Queen with how she leads and carries herself around others. Yvette, you have represented Uganda so well and inspired so many girls. I can’t wait to share your full story here.
Congratulations to Miss Texas-Houston Hasifa Meriam (above & upper left below), who was crowned Miss UNAA 2012 – 2014!! More about her story and platform coming soon.
Hello Petronella,
I have looked at your work, especially the work with Miss UNAA Pageant, Great Work! UNAA President
Francis, thank you! Thanks for stopping by!
Yes!! The top left one is amazing!
Woot! Woot! Thanks Liz
These are so beautiful Petronella !!!!!
Yvette, glad you like them!
omgggness Ms.Petronella these are amazing i love them i love them i love them,i wouldnt mind at all having another photo shoot with you in the near future:)…thankyou
Made my day to get this comments. Thanks Crystal