By Saida Kessy (Miss Tanzania 1997)
It is with both sorrow and profound gratitude that we bid farewell to a true legend, uncle Hashim Lundenga, the visionary founder of the Miss Tanzania pageant. His passing leaves an irreplaceable void but his legacy will continue to shine brightly through the countless lives he touched.
Uncle Hashim was a man who dared to dream when others only saw obstacles. In 1993, he defied all odds and revived the Miss Tanzania pageant, which had been banned for years. It was his unwavering belief in the potential of Tanzanian women that led him to step outside his comfort zone and create a platform where beauty, intelligence and strength could be celebrated.
He understood that such opportunities were not merely about crowns, but about empowering young women to step into their greatness — to envision a future far beyond the constraints of their circumstances.
As Miss Tanzania 1997, I stand as a testament to his vision. Through the Miss Tanzania pageant, I found not only a platform for self-expression but also a gateway to endless opportunities. My journey, which led me to a career with the United Nations as a Communications Specialist, was paved by the foundation he laid. His encouragement and the opportunities he provided allowed me to explore the world in ways I never thought possible.
Today, as the founder of Dunia Moja Pamoja, a drug rehabilitation NGO, I reflect on the incredible impact that uncle Hashim’s work had on shaping not just my career but also my sense of purpose. The beauty platform he established was never about mere appearances — it was about cultivating responsibility, leadership and social consciousness among the women he mentored.
Uncle Hashim’s impact will forever resonate in the lives of those fortunate enough to be part of the Miss Tanzania family. He gave us more than just a crown; he gave us vision, a sense of possibility and the courage to pursue our dreams. His legacy is woven into the very fabric of who we are today. For that, we are eternally grateful.
Rest in peace, uncle Hashim. Your courage, kindness and dedication will never be forgotten.
