Ms Teen Universe misses out on global competition

By Jimmy Chazama: Miss Teen Universe Malawi Shakira Machakwani has withdrawn from contesting at this year's Miss Teen Universe in Cambodia due to passport delays. Her failure has seen her being replaced by Miss Teenager Africa Malawi Leonorah Cooke. In a statement, Miss Teen Universe Malawi organisers say Cooke has been appointed following Machakwani's inability to obtain her passport within the required timeframe, which made travel and visa processing impossible. Miss Teen Universe Malawi says that they are disappointed that Machakwani will not be able to represent Malawi at the global platform this year. " We fully understand that circumstances beyond one's control can sometimes affect international participation. We sincerely thank her for her dedication, commitment, and service during her reign," reads the statement. The franchise is managed by Lush Africa led by Lorraine Kljajic. Kljajic said Cooke had graciously accepted the responsibility. "She will immediately begin preparations for the international event scheduled for October 19 to 26," she said. Cooke said she was ready to fly the country's flag at the international platform. "This means more for me, this is a dream come true for a girl like me. At the same time, it is unfortunate that Shakira has not managed to make it," she said. Cooke said the opportunity carries a special meaning as a girl living with albinism. "We are often sidelined and underestimated, so this opportunity means even more to me. I promise to represent Malawi with pride and make my country proud," she said. Meanwhile, Miss Teen Universe Malawi organisers have called upon the corporate world and well-wishers to support Cooke as she prepares to represent the country.

Times Malawi Times Malawi · Wire Report · 13 hours ago · 2 min read

Image via wire syndication · Times Malawi

WIRE — By Jimmy Chazama: Miss Teen Universe Malawi Shakira Machakwani has withdrawn from contesting at this year's Miss Teen Universe in Cambodia due to passport delays. Her failure has seen her being replaced by Miss Teenager Africa Malawi Leonorah Cooke. In a statement, Miss Teen Universe Malawi organisers say Cooke has been appointed following Machakwani's inability to obtain her passport within the required timeframe, which made travel and visa processing impossible. Miss Teen Universe Malawi says that they are disappointed that Machakwani will not be able to represent Malawi at the global platform this year. " We fully understand that circumstances beyond one's control can sometimes affect international participation. We sincerely thank her for her dedication, commitment, and service during her reign," reads the statement. The franchise is managed by Lush Africa led by Lorraine Kljajic. Kljajic said Cooke had graciously accepted the responsibility. "She will immediately begin preparations for the international event scheduled for October 19 to 26," she said. Cooke said she was ready to fly the country's flag at the international platform. "This means more for me, this is a dream come true for a girl like me. At the same time, it is unfortunate that Shakira has not managed to make it," she said. Cooke said the opportunity carries a special meaning as a girl living with albinism. "We are often sidelined and underestimated, so this opportunity means even more to me. I promise to represent Malawi with pride and make my country proud," she said. Meanwhile, Miss Teen Universe Malawi organisers have called upon the corporate world and well-wishers to support Cooke as she prepares to represent the country.

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