A Tilehurst single mum of two autistic children hopes she can inspire women from all backgrounds when she represents Reading at the Miss, Mrs and Mr Africa UK and Ireland pageant in September.
Sarah Sakala, who won the Miss Amiable title at the Miss Africa GB pageant last year, heads to Manchester later this year – and is on a mission to encourage women in the Reading area to follow their dreams.
Sarah was born in Zambia and moved to England from Botswana aged 14 but says she now considers Reading her home.
As well as being a single mum to two autistic children, she runs her own cleaning business – Sakala Cleaning Service.
“I am proud to be representing Reading as a finalist in the Miss, Mrs and Mr Africa UK and Ireland pageant,” said Sarah, who says she is committed to supporting African communities in her area.
“This isn’t just about being part of a beauty pageant for me. My journey is about a personal transformation and I want to encourage and inspire other women.
“I am looking forward to joining a community of remarkable men and women from all over the UK and Ireland, who are redefining the traditional notions of beauty and influence.”
She added: “The Miss, Mrs and Mr Africa UK and Ireland programme is different from standard beauty pageants. It is a vibrant celebration and showcase of African people in the UK and Ireland, showcasing the depth and diversity of our communities.”
The pageant aims to embrace the wholesomeness of individuals and welcomes entries from men and women of all shapes and sizes. It places significant value on traits such as character, community impact and an individual’s role in shaping the future.
The Miss, Mrs and Mr Africa UK and Ireland journey will continue beyond 2025, as each participant carries forward the lessons learned and the connections made, contributing to a future where beauty and positive impact are intertwined.
Sarah is involved in a number of projects to help support African communities in Reading – including a festival in the town that will celebrate music, art and culture from different African communities.
Sarah has the backing of Councillor Glenn Dennis, Reading’s first black Mayor, who stepped down from his role as Reading’s Mayor this month.
Councillor Dennis is an advocate for diversity and inclusion. One of his chosen charities during his time as Mayor was the Reading Community Learning Centre, which Sarah is also a supporter of and is dedicated to empowering marginalised women from Black, Asian, or Minority Ethnic backgrounds.
