Pamela Uba made history in 2021 as the first Black woman to hold the title of Miss Ireland. Her crowning brought fresh inspiration to Ireland’s pageantry world, breaking new ground and creating a platform for Black Irish women. Uba, a Nigerian-Irish medical scientist, captivated the nation with her story of perseverance, resilience, and academic excellence.
A New Era for Representation and Diversity in Irish Pageantry
Winning Miss Ireland was not just a personal achievement for Pamela Uba; it was a groundbreaking moment for diversity in Ireland. Uba’s victory came after 74 years of the competition, and her win was a first for Black Irish women.
“It feels amazing to be that face young Black girls can look at and say, ‘Yes, she did it, so we can do it too,’” Uba shared. As a proud Irish woman with Nigerian heritage, she became a symbol of hope, reflecting a more inclusive Ireland and setting a powerful example for girls everywhere.
Balancing Science and Pageantry During the Pandemic
Pamela Uba’s path to Miss Ireland began in 2020 when she won Miss Galway. Remarkably, Uba entered the pageant world almost by accident while working at a Miss Galway competition. Encouraged by a judge to compete, she decided to try, despite lacking modeling experience.
When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, Uba continued her work as a frontline medical scientist in Galway while preparing for Miss Ireland. Working in biochemistry at University Hospital Galway, she faced the challenges of both her profession and the pageant. Even after winning, Uba expressed her dedication to her work, stating that she had no plans to leave her position on the frontline.
A Message of Inspiration for Black Girls Worldwide
Beyond the pageant title, Uba hoped her victory would inspire young Black girls to dream big. With her focus set on the Miss World 2022 competition, Uba used her platform to encourage others to “break stereotypes” and believe in their potential.
“You are good enough, and your authenticity makes you unique,” she said. She also encouraged girls not to let others define their paths, emphasizing that her goal was to inspire others to pursue their dreams unapologetically. Her journey from arriving in Ireland as a young child with her family to reaching this milestone was a testament to her resilience.
A Journey from Adversity to Achievement
Pamela Uba’s journey to Miss Ireland started far from pageantry. Born in South Africa to Nigerian parents, she came to Ireland at age seven as an asylum seeker. For a decade, Uba and her family lived in a government center for asylum seekers, facing limitations and economic struggles.
Recalling those years, Uba spoke of how she avoided inviting friends over, not wanting them to see her living conditions. Despite the challenges, Uba excelled in school, later studying medical science at university, paving the way for a successful career.
Using Her Platform for Positive Change
Since becoming Miss Ireland, Uba has spoken about the support she has received and the positive response to her achievement. Her presence in the pageant world, while remaining a dedicated scientist, is something she is proud of. “People are supportive, happy to see us represented,” she said. She also received some negative comments but shared that she chooses to focus on the joy of helping her community and inspiring others.
Pamela Uba’s impact goes beyond pageantry; she has become a beacon of hope and a role model. Her journey illustrates the power of representation and the importance of resilience, showcasing her as an individual committed to making a difference.
