Accra: Over the decades, beauty pageants have evolved beyond focusing mainly on physical appearance. Today, winning a crown involves embodying a combination of intelligence, confidence, purpose, and character. Whether it's a global competition like Miss Universe and Miss World or national platforms such as Miss Ghana or Miss Malaika, judges apply structured criteria to ensure the most deserving individual takes the crown.
According to Ghana Web, the basic criteria used to select a beauty queen include various aspects beyond just physical appearance. While modern-day pageantry prioritizes substance, physical representation remains a significant factor. This allows judges to assess overall poise and elegance, body confidence and posture, neatness and grooming, and stage presence. The focus is not on conforming to any rigid beauty standard but on how well a contestant carries herself with confidence.
Communication skills are essential for a queen, who must speak with clarity, confidence, and intelligence. This includes articulation and clarity of speech, confidence under pressure, the ability to express opinions thoughtfully, and public speaking skills. In addition to communication, intelligence and awareness are critical. Judges look for contestants who understand current social issues, demonstrate problem-solving abilities, show awareness of local and global affairs, and present informed opinions.
Modern-day pageantry also places a strong emphasis on community impact and advocacy. Contestants are often required to present advocacy projects, and judges assess the relevance of the cause, genuine passion and commitment, practical impact, and the sustainability of the project. A true queen is expected to use her platform to make a positive difference. Personality and charisma are also vital, requiring authenticity, warmth, and approachability, confidence without arrogance, and positive energy. A queen should naturally command attention while remaining relatable.
Discipline and professionalism are expected behind the spotlight, with contestants needing to be responsible and polite towards other members. Additionally, contestants are expected to have talents that highlight their individual uniqueness. A beauty crown is not simply awarded to the most beautiful person but to the most rounded one-someone who embodies beauty, intelligence, purpose, compassion, and leadership.