Miss World Africa 2025 Hasset Dereje Receives Hero’s Welcome After Historic Achievement

Addis Ababa, June 5, 2025 (FMC) — Hasset Dereje, Ethiopia’s newly crowned Miss World Africa and first runner-up at the 72nd Miss World pageant, received a warm and celebratory welcome in Addis Ababa following her groundbreaking international achievement.

The 19-year-old chemical engineering student from Addis Ababa Science and Technology University made history as the highest-placing Ethiopian contestant at Miss World.

The 2025 edition of the pageant concluded on May 31 in Hyderabad, India, with Thailand’s Opal Suchata Chuangsri crowned Miss World. Hasset earned the continental title of Miss World Africa 2025 for ranking highest among African contestants.

Tourism Minister Ms. Selamawit Kassa praised Hasset for using the global stage to highlight Ethiopia’s rich cultural and historical identity.

She encouraged her to continue promoting Ethiopia as the Land of Origins and to serve as a cultural ambassador on the world stage.

Hasset’s Miss World journey began after being crowned Miss World Ethiopia 2024.

Her “Beauty with a Purpose” project focused on improving educational access for underprivileged girls in rural communities — a cause that gained international recognition during the competition.

Speaking at the event, Hasset expressed heartfelt gratitude for the nationwide support she received and dedicated her title to all Ethiopians and Africans.

She said she hopes to use her platform to inspire young women across the continent.

Hasset’s achievement marks a milestone for Ethiopia in global pageantry and has been widely celebrated as a source of national pride.