DUBAI // African women in Dubai will be able to have their voice heard thanks to a new talent show due to kick off in the emirate early in the new year.
Organised by Flair Events, the Miss Africa Dubai 2013 show will provide a platform for beautiful and talented African women in the city.
"I grew up in Dubai," said Sarah Ansah, the event's director, originally from Ghana. "And as an African woman, I realised there's been a lot [done] to uplift the image of women from all over the UAE. The Government has given a lot of support for women to step up and take their proper place in society."
She said, however, that African women have lacked a platform to present themselves.
"It's not only about being beautiful, we want someone well-rounded that can actually be an expression of who the typical African woman is."
Organisers expect that about 500 women will participate, from whom 25 finalists will be chosen to compete on stage.
Auditions will be held at the Event Centre Dubai on January 4, 5, 11 and 12 from 8am. They are open to African and Arab-African women aged 18 to 35.
Semi-finalists will be announced on February 14.
Categories include talent, intelligence, best dress, photogenic, and tourism and culture.
The overall winner of the contest will be crowned Miss Africa Dubai 2013.
"We're trying to bring cultures from different parts of Africa to the people of the UAE so they can see what a rich culture we've got," Ms Ansah said.
For more information about the contest, call 050 159 4238 or 055 107 9125. Interested parties can also email info@madxb.com, or visit madxb.com or facebook.com/MissAfricaDubai2013.
