Brenda Akot, Ugandan fashion student and Miss East Africa UK, celebrates.

The first ever Miss East Africa UK attracted huge crowds, press and celebrities. Despite being seen as a relatively new beauty pageant, the whole event was well organized and staged. The audience in their hundreds gave a resounding thumbs up to the organizer, reports Isaac Amke.  Humorous rivalry and heavy chants of respective Eastern Africa countries was the order of the evening which led to a thoroughly enjoyable night.

Brenda Akot, the winner went down a storm with a passionate crowd at heaven nightclub in central London. High pitched cheering and wailing shouts never stopped throughout the evening.

It was a great night for showcasing East African beauty, cultural dresses, music and talent. There were performances from Yung Cuz (up and coming sensational hip-hop/rap artist), Teddy boy (East Africa's best kept secret) and spinning DJ Dubwise. Most Journalists and photographers at the event noted that the whole stage production was excellently choreographed. "This is the best ever East African event I have been to ", remarked veteran journalist Topi Lymbila.
 
Riding the joy of her crown, Brenda was joined on stage by her mum (a beauty queen herself) and lifted her off her feet. "I'm so over joyed", remarked the 21 year old Ugandan fashion and design student. "Just wait and see the work I will do with this crown", she added. The queen of Miss East Africa UK will embark on a long journey throughout East Africa to change the lifes of needy children.

The event was held to raise awareness and help children orphaned through HIV/AIDS and genocide.

The celebrity judges were Makosi, Rachel Ritfeld, Anya and joining them was Councillor Marianne Alapini from the Mayor of London's office. The show was hosted by Vanessa Lyton-mcIntosh and co- hosted by Pauline Long (the organizer).