Saturday was a special day for Bennet Phunyanya and Chikondi Kanjaza as they made history after being crowned Mr and Miss Albinism, respectively, in the inaugural event held at Bingu International Convention Centre in Lilongwe.
The colourful event attracted high-profile people such as First Lady Gertrude Mutharika, Minister of Gender, Children, Disability and Social Welfare Mary Navicha and Wife to Vice President Everton Chimulirenji, Judith.
Bennet won the hearts of many from the word go when he, among other things, demonstrated competence in answering with boldness a question which was posed to him by the judges.
Currently working as a presenter at Angaliba Television, Banet holds a bachelor’s degree in Communication from University of Malawi’s Chancellor College (Chanco).
Chikondi, on the other hand, who is a third year student pursing a bachelor of social science degree at Chanco, also impressed the audience with her catwalk as well as answered intelligently questions posed to her by the judges.
Despite having another show at the same venue featuring musician Lulu, who was launching his sixth album, the event attracted a bigger audience.
Bennet has pledged to use his crown to help persons with albinism in the country that are not economically empowered.
“People with albinism should keep working hard and believe in themselves because in Africa people look down on persons with albinism so they should keep working hard and keep trusting in themselves,” he said.
On her part, Chikondi said she would use part of her prize money to help vulnerable people.
“I am so excited. I did not expect this to happen and I thank God that this has but it is all praise and glory to the Lord, and going forward, I want to help vulnerable groups,” Chikondi said.
Zambian Musician Bruce Simbwalanga, popularly known as B1, also performed at the event.
His special appearance at the event saw him dish out two songs ‘Sikiliti Ku Bedi’ and the currently trending song ‘Kwa George’ which dragged the First Lady to the dance floor.
Guest Judge was Godfrey Mphatswe from South Africa. Sabc’s Puleng Malabitsa was also there.
Benet and Chikondi went home with K1 million each and a laptop.
And as if this was not enough, Benet also went home with another K500,000 when he was also crowned Mr Talent.
Hilda Macheso and Fergus Makamo were crowned First Princess and Prince, respectively.
Among other well-wishers, President Peter Mutharika donated K2.5 million to the course.