Kansanga, Kampala – Seeing contestants from different backgrounds, countries, and walks of life standing side by side for a picture moment amidst the cake-cutting celebration in honour of the newly crowned Mr and Miss IUEA 2025 brought the most heartwarming feeling to the dazzling stage, right in the heart of IUEA’s Auditorium.
It was a moment that perfectly captured the essence of this year’s theme — “The Balance of Poise, Elegance, and Grace.”
The night began with vibrant energy as the DJ warmed up the stage, setting the crowd in motion and filling the auditorium with excitement. The atmosphere intensified when LD Chopper took over with a fiery opening act, hyping the audience for the spectacular evening ahead.
Then came the contestant introductions, where each participant confidently presented themselves, sharing their passions, values, and what inspired them to take part in the competition.
The spotlight then turned to intellect and expression during the question session between student representatives from different faculties, a segment that reflected the academic diversity and vibrant student spirit of IUEA. This was followed by a thrilling dance performance by a South Sudanese student, whose cultural rhythms and moves ignited pride and applause across the room.
The night’s visual highlight arrived with the Cultural Creative Wear category, as contestants graced the runway in breathtaking outfits inspired by different roots across Africa— each ensemble telling a story of tradition and identity. From there, the event shifted gears into the Dinner Wear segment, where elegance took center stage. Contestants walked with grace and confidence, exuding the essence of class and refinement.
As the competition intensified, contestants faced the question session, demonstrating eloquence, intelligence, and composure. The crowd roared in support as the Dean of Students took the stage to crown Mr and Miss Popularity, recognizing the contestants who had captured the hearts of their peers. The excitement carried on with another student performance by AP, who delivered a vibrant act that kept the audience on their feet.
Adding a touch of nostalgia and inspiration, the previous kings and queens made their grand walk across the stage, followed by mini speeches reflecting on their journeys and the legacy of the pageant. Soon after, another question session tested the remaining contestants’ poise and articulation as the judges deliberated.
The tension reached its peak as the Top 6 male and Top 6 female contestants were announced. A final question session followed, leading to the elimination of three contestants from each category. The atmosphere was electric as the winners were announced, starting with the second runners-up, followed by the first runners-up, and finally, the crowning of the new Mr and Miss IUEA 2025; Isaac Cibembe and Ajah Majok.
Cheers and applause filled the hall as flowers were presented to the female second runners-up, first runners-up, and the new Miss IUEA — a gesture of grace and recognition. The event closed with a joyful cake moment and a heartwarming group photo session, capturing smiles, laughter, and pride of each contestant seeing the journey through.
More than a competition, Mr & Miss IUEA 2025 was a celebration of diversity, intellect, and the vibrant spirit of IUEA — a night where poise, elegance, and grace was embraced wholeheartedly and seamlessly in the spotlight.
