What better way to express the beauty of a culture?
On the 16th of November, 2025 – Yenagoa, Nigeria – the Banquet Hall came alive with elegance and tradition as Miss Epie Atissa Kingdom (MEAK) held its much-anticipated pageant, a powerful celebration of the Epie culture as Mr. Inimeya T. Isaiah unveiled the beauty of the Epie-Atissa culture through the most relatable symbol of beauty: women.
A Night of Ethereal Pageantry
The evening opened with a mesmerizing dance performance, as all ten contestants glided onto the stage in a choreographed act titled “Touch of Continuity.” The performance, ethereal and fluid, gracefully conveyed the message that the traditions of the Epie people continue to live and evolve.
The goal was to bring together all Epie communities on one stage and as one audience to cheer and support where necessary. Ten Epie communities were ably represented by the following contestants with grace and elegance:
- Ovom by Miss Adulphus Precious
- Famgbe by Miss Nefigha Permanent Clifford
- Azikoro by Miss Sylvester Josephine
- Akenfa by Miss Canus Success Progress
- Akaba by Miss Ibubu Jessica Onini
- Agudama-epie by Miss Matthew Omininize
- Biogbolo by Miss Rufus Sarah
- Yenagoa by Miss Isaac Faustina
- Yenebebeli I by Miss Tommy Kandi Ogilizibe
- Yenebebeli II by Miss Sunday Eredeme Esther
Their performance set the tone for the rest of the night, which saw interludes of music, cultural performances, and heartfelt speeches.
Putting Culture First: A Mission Born from Experience
Inimeya, the host of the evening, took a deeply personal moment to share why MEAK matters. He recounted how, during his school days as a dancer, he faced bias and misperceptions about the Epie-Atissa people. That experience fueled his resolve: to create a pageant that tells a different story — one that radiates pride, unity, and the beauty of his community. Inimeya thanked his dedicated team, whose behind-the-scenes work has made every MEAK edition possible.
Special recognition was given to Steve Azaiki, who has been instrumental to MEAK’s success by generously offering his venue for auditions each year.
Beauty, Language & Identity
When the contestants returned to the stage for their second entrance, it wasn’t just about gowns and poise. Each young woman introduced herself, speaking in the Epie language, and described her attire in her mother tongue — an exercise that highlighted the pageant’s commitment to cultural authenticity. The judges — Robert Derek Ukesiya and Zimokpoemi Okoya Ogoniba — evaluated not just their appearance but their fluency in Epie and how genuinely they carried their identity.
Honouring Epie Excellence
In a moment that reinforced the pageant’s broader purpose — not just celebrating external beauty but championing excellence in the community — several creatives and entrepreneurs from Epie-Atissa were honored:
Mrs. Kinime Igbokwe, known in fashion circles as La Kimmy, is the founder of LaKimmy fashion house. A couture visionary, she blends tradition with modern elegance, creating gowns that are both timeless and deeply rooted in her heritage.
John Prosper, the founder of Paradise Beauty Salon, whose entrepreneurial spirit has not only grown a thriving business but also put Epie talent on display in beauty and music.
Madam Helen Ovieteme Lott, a presenter and businesswoman whose work uplifts her community and serves as an inspiration to many.
High Chief Osomkime Edwin Blankso, a respected lawyer, philanthropist, and CEO of Olby Group of Companies from the Famgbe community — a symbol of what Epie human resources can achieve.
These awards served to project the greatness and potential of Epie people beyond the pageant stage.
Contestant Awards & The Crown
Camp-specific awards added friendly competition and highlighted different strengths:
Miss Famgbe (Nefigha Permanent Clifford): Most Intelligent
Miss Azikoro (Sylvester Josephine): Best Behaved & Most Photogenic
Miss Akenfa (Canus Success Progress): Fan’s Favourite
When it came time for the final crowning, Miss Famgbe – Nefigha Permanent Clifford took home the crown, followed by Miss Agudama-epie – Matthew Omininize as the first runner-up, and Miss Akenfa – Canus Success Progress as the second runner-up.
Why This Matters
Miss Epie Atissa Kingdom is more than just a beauty contest — it’s a movement. By centering Epie language, culture, and the achievements of its people, MEAK is reshaping the narrative around identity, representation, and pride. The pageant brings together different communities, rallies support from notable figures, and celebrates the power and dignity of Epie women.
In a world where cultural identities often get sidelined, MEAK reclaims the narrative — reminding everyone that the most relatable symbol of beauty is not just how you look, but where you come from, what you speak, and who you are.
