Miss Rwanda 2016 kicked off last week in the Northern and Western provinces and although it is still too early to judge, this year’s edition holds promises of even better organisation.

During the first two auditions, the process was smooth and swift. There was no delay at the sign up and the weight or height measuring spots.Noteworthy is the fact that the number of girls who showed up for the auditions was lower compared to last year. In Musanze, 13 girls showed up while in Rubavu, only 7 showed up.

According to the Miss Rwanda organisers, the focus isn’t on numbers, but the right candidates, those who can make the cut to represent the country on the international scene.

The judges were impressed by the girls who showed up. Speaking to journalists after the auditions, Carine Utamuliza Rusaro, one of the judges and the first runner up in the first ever edition of the pageant in 2009, said that the panel is positive about the contestants, the girls are intelligent and know what is required.

"We have contestants who are intelligent, and we are positive that during boot camp, something good will come out of it. The winner should be an ambassador; when we train them and they add to what they know, we will have an excellent candidate,” Rusaro said.

Some of the contestants already have some experience in the pageant, like Balbine Umutoni, who was fourth runner up in last year’s edition.Most have been at junior events in secondary school and university. Sometimes alittle experience is all you need.

But you’ll be surprised. Last year’s winner, Dorian Kundwa, came in as ‘an unknown’ and went on to win the crown.

Dieudonne Prince Kid Ishiimwe, the CEO of Rwanda Inspiration Back Up, the organisers of the pageant,says that it isn’t about experience, but what you have to present to the judges.

Ishiimwe says that for the Pageant to grow faster and better, it should be left for the private players.

"All around the world these pageants are not government initiatives. They are run privately. With that, it is possible to bring on board many partners,” he says.

He adds that this comes with the advantage of better execution and implementation of activities.

Three years of managing the competition has taught Ishiimwe one thing; that having focus and sticking to your goals pays off, considering how the pageant has improved since the reign of Grace Bahati (2009-2012).

editorial@newtimes.co.rw