13th December, 2021
Miss Maristella Okpala, Nigeria’s representative at 2021 Miss Universe pageant is not coming home empty handed.
She won a prize for best national costume..
Wearing a costume inspired by a “Mmanwa”, a traditional Igbo masquerade, Okpala explained that the costume sought to celebrate the rich heritage of Nigeria.
On her Instagram page, Okpala said: “I must say National Costume show is always my best part of any competition.
“It has a way of reminding us that we are all connected and we share similar rich Cultures/Religion irrespective of where we come from, it is only one HUMAN RACE”. And we light up the @missuniverse stage with our Beautiful costumes”.
“I picked this particular costume because I see a self-reflection of my cause in this Mmanwa which protects children and women against any form of abuse.
“Finally, this costume pays attention to the strong will of women in attaining whatever heights they want to attain, no matter the challenges faced while reaching their desired goals.
Watch her strut in the video below
https://www.instagram.com/p/CXYszITFJHI/
According to GMA News online, the costume was created by Filipino designer Kennedy Jhon Gasper.
He notably also made the incredible “Lioness” ensemble worn by Miss Universe Cameroon 2020 Kossinda Angeles at the last Miss Universe pageant.
According to Kennedy, the costume was made with African beads, stones, and crafts.
“This costume pays attention to the strong will of women in attaining what ever height they want to attain, no matter the challenges faced while reaching their desired goals,” he wrote on Instagram.