For more than two weeks, the Philippines has been home to the Miss Environment International competitions, an event rich with colour, culture, and global purpose. At the centre of Uganda’s spotlight stood Trisha Ahwera, the country’s lone representative, who carried the flag with elegance, conviction, and unmistakable pride.
From global swimsuit and talent showcases to national costume displays, environmental workshops, community action events, eco-tourism promotions and high-stakes press presentations, the journey to coronation night at the grand City of Dreams in Parañaque, Metro Manila was as demanding as it was inspiring.
Hosted by Mr World 2014 first runner-up Andrew Wolfe, the glittering grand finale saw Filipina beauty, Mutya ng Pilipinas, crowned Miss Environment International 2025, succeeding fellow Filipina Shannon Robinson. But one of the night’s biggest triumphs belonged to Uganda: Trisha Ahwera was named first runner-up, placing her among the world’s most outstanding environmental ambassadors. Rebecca Baptiste of Trinidad & Tobago followed as second runner-up.
In a heartfelt appreciation message, Ahwera dedicated her success to the nation.
“This achievement is not just mine. It is a win for all of us as Ugandans, showcasing our nation’s strength, beauty, and commitment to environmental action on the global stage,” she said. The pageant’s Top Six also featured Simi Nair (India), Tran Thi Myinh (Vietnam), and Gabriella Jasmin Dixon (United States of America).
Throughout their stay, the delegates explored historic and eco-friendly sites, including Plaza Moriones, Fort Santiago in Intramuros, and the Kawayan Eco Park in Cavite. They also participated in a clean-up drive at the Avian Sanctuary in Parañaque, an activity that reflected the pageant’s core mission.
Miss Environment International, launched in India where Belgium’s Kayra Wouters took the inaugural crown and the Philippines’ Michelle Arceo placed first runner-up, continues to highlight advocates committed to preserving the planet. Ahwera stands firmly within that legacy. More than a pageant model, she is a queen whose influence extends past the runway, embracing public speaking, cultural representation, and environmental advocacy. Her mission at the competition was clear: to amplify Uganda’s environmental challenges, from deforestation and climate change to floods and poor waste management.
Her outstanding performance in the Philippines has not only raised Uganda’s profile but also given its environmental struggles a powerful and compelling new voice, one that the world is now listening to.
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