V&A Sherry turned one of Uganda’s biggest pageant milestones into a celebration of confidence and shared success as the country crowned its first-ever Miss Universe queen at a glittering Grand Finale held on August 1 at Imperial Royale Hotel in Kampala.
The inaugural Miss Universe Uganda Grand Finale marked the beginning of a new chapter for Ugandan pageantry, with Mitchelle Daka emerging victorious before an audience of former beauty queens, celebrities, creatives, business leaders and supporters who gathered to witness history unfold.
Long before the crown found its queen, the evening had already become a celebration. Guests gathered around the elegant V&A cocktail experience, where signature sangrias, sparkling cocktails and premium bottle serves set the tone for the night. Between photographs at immersive brand installations and conversations over raised glasses, every moment reflected V&A Sherry’s “Yours to Share” philosophy.
One of the evening’s defining highlights was the presentation of the Face of V&A award. Mitchelle Daka received UGX 3 million, a bouquet of roses, a V&A Sherry hamper and the opportunity to become the Face of V&A throughout her reign as Miss Universe Uganda. The award was presented by V&A Brand Manager Roy Ronald Tumwizere, who praised her confidence, elegance and spirit.
“The women we celebrated tonight remind us that confidence, ambition and resilience deserve to be recognised,” said Roy. “At V&A Sherry, we are proud to support platforms that inspire women to dream boldly. Every milestone becomes more meaningful when celebrated together, and that is the spirit behind our ‘Yours to Share’ philosophy.”
The black-tie audience transformed Imperial Royale Hotel into a dazzling fashion showcase as tailored tuxedos, shimmering gowns and sparkling chandeliers set the stage for an unforgettable evening. Between competition segments, performances by Maurice Kirya, Lilian Mbabazi, Jiren Seyn, V&A’s very own Tracy Melon, Minister Rachel K and Valentino Kabenge kept the audience entertained,
Mitchelle received UGX 24 million, a Toyota Wish and additional prizes from partner sponsors before beginning her reign as Uganda’s first Miss Universe queen. She will now represent Uganda on the global Miss Universe stage.
Kimberly Jael Aremo finished First Runner-up and will represent Uganda at Miss Africa, while Bridget Katungi will compete at Miss Face of Tourism. Sureya Umeima was named Third Runner-up, and Jemima Mpoza will represent Uganda at Miss Face of Humanity in China.
Other Awards:
Face of V&A – Mitchelle Daka
People’s Choice – Kimberly Jael Aremo Acio
Multimedia Queen – Mitchelle Daka
Miss Personality – Nabuzaale Elina
Super Model – Teopista Aromach
Wellness Queen – Kimberly Jael Aremo
Face of NRG & Play It Loud – Jemima Mpoza
Best Swimsuit – Patience Mutesi & Joan Nabatanzi
Miss Congeniality – Bridget Katungi
Miss Photogenic – Faith Mugisha.
The inaugural Miss Universe Uganda Grand Finale proved that modern pageantry is no longer sashes and crowns. It is about celebrating women, creating opportunities and bringing people together, one shared milestone at a time.