PARIS: The recent scene in a Paris theatre was loud and tumultuous with hundreds of spectators backing their favourites in the Miss Ivory Coast/France 2024 contest, one of many events at which France’s African diaspora celebrate their dual culture.
Amidst cheers and applause, the 19 contestants graced the stage, donning traditional wax dresses, swimsuits, and evening wear, showcasing the fusion of their French upbringing with their African roots.
After a riveting four-hour spectacle, Lyse Amissah, contestant number 18, emerged victorious, expressing her gratitude and pride at the win. The 22-year-old Paris-born student, of Ivorian descent, declared the significance of the contest beyond a mere beauty pageant, emphasizing its role in connecting her with her cultural heritage.
For Amissah, the contest serves as a poignant reminder of her Ivorian lineage, offering a platform to honor and celebrate her roots amidst her French upbringing.
Flora Sy, president of the Miss Ivory Coast/France committee, highlighted the contestants’ dual pride in their French and Ivorian identities, underscoring the importance of showcasing Ivorian culture alongside their French heritage.
Reflecting on the evolution of such contests, Mams Yaffa, organizer of the inaugural Miss Mali/France in 2002, reminisced about the challenges faced amidst prevalent racism. However, he noted that these events provided a platform for activism, with contestants serving as role models and advocates for societal issues, including hygiene, education, and health awareness.
While the contests serve as bridges between France and African countries, fostering close ties and cultural exchange, they also address contemporary issues such as illegal immigration and health awareness.
Amissah, leveraging her newfound fame, is using her platform to advocate for ending the taboo surrounding endometriosis in Ivory Coast, showcasing the broader impact of these contests beyond the realm of beauty.
Despite occasional diplomatic tensions between France and some African countries, organizers remain steadfast in their commitment to promoting cultural exchange and mutual understanding.
