In a celebratory press conference held at the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs (MTCA) Conference Hall, Miss Teen Universe Sierra Leone 2025, Lilia Martha, was officially presented to the Ministry following her historic crowning as Miss Teen Universe Africa 2025.
The event served to honor Lilia’s remarkable achievement at the international Grand Finale held in India, where she captivated audiences and judges alike, radiating confidence and grace while proudly representing Sierra Leone and the broader African continent.
Senior officials from the Ministry lauded Lilia for her accomplishment. The Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Judith C. Jones, extended warm congratulations, describing Lilia’s win as “a proud moment for Sierra Leone and Africa,” and thanked her mother and support team for their unwavering dedication.
The Director of Culture, Creativity and Innovation, Mr. Foday Jalloh, echoed these sentiments, applauding Lilia’s success. He revealed that the Ministry had been confident in her ability to bring home the title and used the opportunity to encourage parents across the nation to support their children’s creative and cultural aspirations.
Expressing immense joy and pride, the Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Hon. Nabeela Farida Tunis, stated that Lilia has brought great honor and significant visibility to Sierra Leone. The Minister emphasized that Lilia’s victory is reshaping the perception of youth pageantry, highlighting its potential for empowerment and positive advocacy.
Minister Tunis also conveyed official commendations from His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, the Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, and members of the Cabinet, who all recognized Lilia’s remarkable resilience and maturity.
In a significant announcement, Minister Tunis proclaimed Lilia Martha as a Cultural Ambassador for the Ministry, solidifying her role as a symbol of purpose, beauty, and national pride.
In her heartfelt address, Lilia Martha expressed profound gratitude to the Ministry, her family, and Sierra Leoneans at home and abroad for their love and encouragement. She reflected on her empowering journey in India, where she actively advocated for critical causes close to her heart, including breast cancer awareness and the movement to end early child marriage.
Lilia declared that her success is not just a personal victory, but a triumph for Sierra Leone, for Africa, and for every young girl who dares to dream big.
