Fashion model and media personality Jean Ojiro has revealed that she postponed her graduation party to dedicate herself to training for the Miss Universe Kenya 2026 competition.
The sacrifice, she says, was worth making after being crowned the country's new beauty queen.
Ojiro, 27, won the coveted title during the glamorous national finale held on Saturday, July 25, at the Emara Ole-Sereni Hotel in Nairobi.
She emerged victorious from a highly competitive field of more than 500 contestants.
Sharing her journey on Instagram after the win, Ojiro reflected on the commitment it took to achieve her dream.
"When I tell you guys that this competition meant so much to me that I put off having my graduation party so that I could focus on training?" she wrote.
The newly crowned queen said her victory reaffirmed her belief in faith and perseverance.
"I'll never get tired of expressing how good God is! Hard work rarely goes unrewarded. And most importantly, when God says that it's your time, it is in fact your time," she said.
She also revealed that her postponed graduation celebration will now coincide with her latest achievement.
"Sasa bash itakuwa 2 in 1," she added.
Beyond the glamour, Ojiro says she intends to use her reign to champion the fight against femicide, which she describes as one of Kenya's most pressing social challenges.
"So far this year, Kenya has recorded approximately 125 cases of femicide, a stark reminder of the urgent need to protect women and girls," she said.
"I am an advocate for the prevention of femicide. Across Kenya, the crisis of femicide has stolen the lives of far too many mothers, daughters and sisters. We can no longer remain silent."
She said she is committed to working with non-governmental organisations, policymakers and communities to strengthen protection systems, support survivors and raise awareness through social media.
"I also want to create social media awareness to educate, engage and inspire action. Through collaboration, education and awareness, I envision a Kenya where every woman and girl is safe, valued and empowered," she said.
As Miss Universe Kenya 2026, Ojiro earned a $10,000 (Sh1.2 million) cash prize, a brand-new Nissan Note, a fully furnished residence during her reign and a five-month skincare package.
She will now represent Kenya at the 75th Miss Universe pageant in San Juan, Puerto Rico, where contestants from more than 130 countries will compete.
The global event will feature the National Costume Show on November 21, the Preliminary Competition on November 22, before culminating in the grand finale on November 24, 2026, at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico José Miguel Agrelot.
The Miss Universe Organization has evolved beyond a traditional beauty contest into a global platform that celebrates leadership, cultural diversity and women's empowerment.
Contestants are expected to champion social causes, demonstrate strong public speaking and leadership skills, and inspire positive change in their communities while promoting cross-cultural understanding.
During the international competition, Ojiro is expected to
spotlight her advocacy against femicide while also promoting girls' education,
mental health, climate action and the economic empowerment of women as she
seeks to bring Kenya its first Miss Universe crown.
