A 25-year-old Science Laboratory Technology student at Accra Technical University (ATU), Maame Esi Kodie, has been crowned Miss Natural Beauty Ghana 2026.

The native of Prampram in the Greater Accra Region beat eight other finalists to win the title at the grand finale of the pageant held at the ETS Drama Studio, University of Ghana, on Sunday, August 30.

Abena Oforiwa, 18, an Information Technology student at Ghana Communication Technology University and native of Agbozume Klikor in the Volta Region, was adjudged first runner-up, while 18-year-old Dede Kabukie from Ningo in the Greater Accra Region placed third.

The Miss Natural Beauty Ghana pageant, which held its maiden edition in August 2023, seeks to celebrate African women’s natural beauty, culture, fashion, craftsmanship and locally made beauty and wellness products.

It also aims to encourage women to embrace their natural appearance and build confidence in themselves amid unrealistic beauty standards, particularly those promoted on social media.

Director of Miss Natural Beauty Ghana and Miss Natural Beauty Africa, Grace Ayishetu Hamidu-Musah, said the pageant was designed as a mentorship platform rather than simply a beauty competition.

“It’s really a mentoring process. We spend six to eight months with the contestants. We meet every week, and that gives us room to pour into their lives, inspire them and help them carry the message and brand of natural beauty forward,” she said.

According to her, the initiative was created to restore the self-esteem of African women and remind them that their natural features are beautiful.

As part of the competition, finalists were also given the opportunity to speak on issues affecting women. Maame Esi Kodie addressed bleaching and the pressure women face over their skin tone.

Her performance throughout the competition had already earned her victories in the Cultural Challenge and Social Media Challenge Cycle 2.

Abena Oforiwa earlier won the Public Speaking Challenge, while Awedana Nawuriyare emerged winner of Social Media Challenge Cycle 4.

For her victory, Maame Esi Kodie receives a $1,500 cash prize, a feature as the next face of Miss Natural Beauty Africa Magazine and an ambassadorial role with the brand.

First and second runners-up receive $800 and $400 respectively, alongside products and services from sponsors.

Maame Esi thanked those who supported and voted for her.

“A very big thank you to everyone who voted for me and supported me throughout this journey. Your love and belief in me brought me this far, and I’m truly grateful. I promise to make you proud,” she said.