Safiétou Kabengele was crowned Miss Grand France 2024 on May 8, showcasing her commitment to self-acceptance and authenticity. Standing at 1.85 meters, she made waves at the international competition in Thailand, notably removing her wig to support a fellow contestant. Embracing her shaved head, she promotes a powerful message of self-love, inspired by her journey through health challenges. As a fourth runner-up, she encourages others to embrace their true selves and take bold steps toward empowerment.
The Rise of Safiétou Kabengele: Miss Grand France 2024
On May 8, 2024, Safiétou Kabengele was crowned Miss Grand France 2024 at the Longjumeau theater. At just 26 years old, this remarkable young woman clinched the national title, earning her place in the prestigious international competition. On October 22, she took flight to Bangkok, Thailand, to represent her country on the global stage. Standing tall at 1.85 meters, the Normandy native, who first competed in the regional pageant, captivated audiences from Thailand, France, and beyond. During the preliminary rounds, she made a striking impression, first donning a stunning golden gown, followed by a bikini of the same hue. However, it was her iconic gesture that truly resonated with the crowd. While parading in a long, straight wig, she made the bold decision to remove it and gift it to a fellow contestant, showcasing her commitment to authenticity.
A Powerful Message of Self-Acceptance
Before her participation, the international president of the Miss Grand competition had suggested that Safiétou wear a wig, a proposal she firmly declined. Valuing her freedom and self-expression, she stated, “For me, it was out of the question to hide my shaved head.” Throughout the Miss Grand International contest, Safiétou aimed to reach those who feel pressured by society’s beauty standards. She passionately expressed, “I absolutely wanted to convey this message, which is to accept oneself as one is.” While she appreciates beauty with hair, she feels “even more beautiful without it.” Her shaved head is an integral part of her identity, and she wishes to share that with the world. Now, as Miss Grand France 2024 and fourth runner-up at the international event, she embraces her stature with newfound confidence, overcoming her past insecurities about her height. Reflecting on her journey, she admits, “I didn’t know how to embrace that,” but she is now determined to break free from the stereotypes she once held.
Having battled thyroid issues, Safiétou underwent surgery that prompted her to realize that “life is short.” This life-altering experience motivated her to pursue what truly inspires her, unbothered by the judgments of others. “I decided to find myself […] and that involved the physical,” she shares, offering a hopeful message. Gradually, she began to cut her hair until she ultimately shaved her head, an act she describes as liberating. “I felt good,” she recalls, and her loved ones celebrated her courage and uniqueness. If she could impart one piece of advice, it would be simply to “Dare!” She believes that the world will appreciate your willingness to take chances, leaving us with a beautiful lesson in self-acceptance and empowerment.