Malawi’s teen queen seeks wings to soar
By Jimmy Chazama:
Miss Teen Universe Malawi representative Leonorah Cooke is chasing Cambodia’s skies to fly the country’s flag but she needs K10 million to get to the global pageant. Cooke, who replaced Miss Teen Universe Malawi Shakira Machakwani, who withdrew following passport delay, said the international competition requires significant resources hence sounding a K10 million quest.
“I cannot do it alone, I need support to participate at this event which will help to put Malawi in the limelight,” she said.
The pageant will run from October 19 to 26 2026 Cambodia, with contestants from across the globe expected to compete.
Cooke is expected to depart the country on October 16 or 17.
The franchise is managed by Lush Africa, led by Lorraine Kljajic.
Kljajic, who is also the founder for Miss Culture Malawi, said that travel costs alone are substantial.
“We asked a travel agency, they quoted us K5,075,900 for one return ticket. Leonorah will go with a chaperone, who will also be responsible for her wardrobe, make up and pictures,” She said.
Kljajic added that Miss Culture has been working with fashion designers on Cooke’s wardrobe, while visa fees, medical insurance and accommodation for the chaperone also need to be covered.
She said they did not reach out to Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture for assistance, citing previous engagements that showed that it lacked funding for such initiatives.
Miss Teen Universe is an international teen beauty pageant that brings together contestants aged 14 to 19 from across the world to showcase confidence, culture and leadership.
