Sierra Leone’s representative at the Miss World pageant, Mariyam Lorba Konneh, has reflected on her experience in Vietnam after six days of activities, expressing her longing for Sierra Leonean food while embracing the cultural experiences and opportunities offered by the global competition.

Konneh said she misses some of the country’s popular dishes, including cassava leaf, okra stew and achekeh, as she continues her Miss World journey alongside contestants from different countries.

“Miss Sierra Leone is up and active, but I am missing my Sierra Leone (Salone food),” Konneh said, while expressing appreciation for the diverse African and international cuisines she has encountered during the pageant.

The Sierra Leonean beauty queen said she is using the international platform to showcase aspects of Sierra Leonean culture and identity to audiences around the world.

“I am showing the world how we do it in Sierra Leone. I am excited and grateful for this opportunity,” she said, while thanking supporters for their continued encouragement.

On Day Six of the competition, Konneh and other contestants took a break from the demanding pageant schedule to enjoy activities at the beach area of Dream Dragon Resort in Vietnam.

The contestants participated in recreational activities, including jet-skiing, while also taking part in filming and other scheduled Miss World engagements.

The beach outing provided an opportunity for the contestants to relax, interact and strengthen friendships as they continue competing for the Miss World crown.

Konneh’s participation has continued to attract attention from Sierra Leoneans at home and abroad, with supporters closely following her activities and expressing confidence in her ability to represent the country strongly on the international stage.

As the Miss World competition progresses, Konneh is continuing to combine her pageant responsibilities with efforts to promote Sierra Leonean culture, while making the most of her experience in Vietnam.