24 year-old Cynthia Kanema describes herself as an adventurous type of girl who sees the sky,
not as a limit but as a starting point. Her vibrant sense of humor- which ranks as one of her
greatest qualities became evident in this interview. She also stands out with a hairstyle that
avoids the conformist look. Her communication skills are beyond question as she gave us very
impressive lines.
What three words best describe you & why?
Sincere, fun and daring. I am an adventurous type of girl who sees the sky, not as a limit but a starting point.
What was your childhood dream?
I wanted to be the best in everything I did.
What were the factors that led you to enlist at the Miss Zambia 2005 pageant?
Beauty contests are not just about wearing make up and high heels. I saw the Miss Universe pageant as a platform on which to carry out my
work and the charities I support and the helping hand I give to the people less fortunate than myself. Miss Universe helps women of today to become the pillars of tomorrow and I know my country will need a pillar for tomorrow.
What is your impression on beauty contests prior to participating in
one?
I have always admired the strength of the major organizations, their contribution in enhancing and supporting todays women, and the inspiration and pride that comes with taking home a crown.
.
Can you put in picture the judging process that you went
through as a contestant of Miss Zambia pageant?
It was a stiff competition from the word "go." There were 4 categories but this year's contest was different. Strictly by invite with a panel of 6 judges for 12 girls, we had to model our garments and show off our
talents.
The swimwear was the last category but by that time, the top five had been announced and we had to answer interview questions as well. The wait was nerve-wracking and seemed to take forever but finally the 2nd runner up was announced then the 1st and finally I heard my name.
I was filled with mixed
emotions.... happiness, relief, surprise, and more happiness.
What do you think are your qualities that
helped you win the Miss Zambia Universe 2005 title?
I must admit
I do have a bit of experience in the field. First, at Miss Malaika then Miss World and finally Miss Africa international where I scooped the crown.
Is winning a beauty pageant important? Tell us about your
responsibilities as Miss Zambia.
Yes, it's very important especially in a country like ours where
it is received with mixed feelings. One needs to present to the country the benefits pageants bring to the country via tourism. Our major projects this year are the Visit Zambia 2005 and
to make poverty history campaigns which
are also coupled with HIV and AIDS awareness. Our objective is to put Zambia back on the map. The beautiful wildlife, and of course, the Victoria falls are things one need not miss in their lifetime.
What is your most prized material possession?
That would be my... ooooh, hard to say!! I'm not materialistic but content with everything I have.
You are still very young and learning... but what do you think is the best lesson life has ever taught you?
The realization that the helping hand I have been looking for is right at the end of my arm and that the small contributions to the people I help is God's way of answering their prayers.
What is your opinion on activists' point of view that exposure of too
much skin in the swimsuit competition disrespects women?
Everyone has their view of different things at different times but I still say that the world is changing and if women are given a chance to express their femininity in this way, what's so wrong about that?
If you were the President of your country and right before you is a bill passed by Congress allowing Human Cloning as a legal procedure in the country, would you sign the bill or refuse the whole thing?
Well, I am a spontaneous kind of person, however, in a country like mine, we've got a long way before we can even think about issues like cloning because we haven't even overcome the obstacle of beauty pageants. I say we do one thing at a time. What was it they said again?
....easy does it!!
What are your passions in life?
My passions in life are swimming, cooking, Salsa dancing,
singing and listening to music.
Can you tell something that is so interesting about you?
I have got three ears....
No, just joking! What I mean is that I am a good listener. I spot people who are in need of a listening ear without them having said anything. I exhibit an excellent listening ear and believe this is my gift to other people.
How did you prepare for the Miss
Universe pageant?
Everyday
was a challenge - from long gym sessions, to almost turning into a vegetarian. I have to attend makeup
workshops,
catwalk and deportment classes.
It was
fun, but one needs to work hard.
How
will you describe your country to the rest of the world?
Landlocked, mysterious and a whole lot of fun. They need to see it for themselves so I'm not going to kill their surprise. Let them experience the magic for themselves.
Give us an idea of your "ideal
man."
Well... I don't want to be shot in the foot!! ha! ha! ha!
How would you define "love"?
I used to say love was when you had butterflies in your stomach and you couldn't eat or sleep. You had a constant smile on your face and lived in dreamland. Not far from the truth
...but love is also about sharing and being sincere. There are so many ways of defining love and I believe one sees love through different eyes.
Do you have a motto or personal quote that you live by?
No, I'm flexible and open and this allows me to learn new things everyday. Living by mottos restricts you from seeing the bigger picture.
Aside from winning your local beauty pageant, what is the most fulfilling thing youve done?
When I came as first princess at Miss Malaika and won the Miss Africa International title.
Tell us about your fashion sense and style.
I'm seasonal, I work with the flow but I'm also conscious about what I wear and how it looks on me. If it looks good on
me, I'll wear it!
Why do you want do be crowned Miss Universe and how would you define the title in your own terms?
Winning a crown wouldn't only mean a lot to me but my country as a whole. I will be able to
somehow change some of the negative views people have about pageants but most importantly it will give me a once in a lifetime opportunity to fulfill my dreams professionally and personally like some of the previous Miss Universe titleholders have done.
What should pageant experts, your fellowmen, fans and beauty watchers expect from Miss
Zambia
at Miss Universe 2005?
My best shot... as I've said, the sky isn't the limit... just the starting point. I'm going out to have fun and meet a whole lot of new people. Let's enjoy the
show!
Finally, leave a personal message to Missosology readers.
To all my fans, supporters and readers of Missosology I thank you from the bottom of my heart!

Thank you Cynthia. Do your best in your
Miss Universe quest! Good Luck!
Special thanks to
Wendy Chanda-Fornarir & Miss Universe Organization
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