Kenya has a new beauty queen.
Jean Ojiro was crowned Miss Universe Kenya 2026 on Saturday, July 25, following a glamorous finale at the Emara Ole Sereni Hotel in Nairobi. The victory secures her place as Kenya’s official representative at the 75th Miss Universe competition, set to take place in San Juan, Puerto Rico, this November.
The accomplished model, media personality and digital content creator outshone a competitive field that began with more than 500 applicants before being narrowed down to the country’s top finalists.
After several rounds of judging that tested beauty, confidence, eloquence and stage presence, Ojiro emerged as the winner ahead of fellow finalists Mokera Onchiri, Mercy Awonda and Immaculate Wachera.
The crowning moment sparked emotional celebrations inside the venue as Ojiro accepted the coveted national title and the responsibility of carrying Kenya’s hopes on one of the world’s biggest pageantry stages.
Her victory marks the beginning of months of preparation before she heads to Puerto Rico to compete against contestants from across the globe for the Miss Universe crown.
As part of her prize package, Ojiro received a brand-new Nissan Note, a $10,000 cash prize, a fully furnished residence for the duration of her reign, and a Sh 500,000 skincare transformation programme designed to support her preparations for the international competition.
Beyond the prizes, Ojiro now carries the responsibility of representing Kenya on the international stage while championing causes close to her heart throughout her reign.
Outside the pageant world, Jean Ojiro has built a name for herself in Kenya’s fashion and entertainment industry.
She is widely recognised as a fashion model, media personality and digital content creator, with years of experience working in front of the camera and collaborating with brands.
Her confidence, communication skills and commanding stage presence were evident throughout the competition, qualities that ultimately helped distinguish her from the rest of the finalists.
Those attributes are expected to serve her well as she embarks on the demanding journey toward the global Miss Universe competition, where contestants are evaluated on much more than appearance.
The international pageant places significant emphasis on advocacy, leadership, communication and cultural representation, making preparation in the months ahead crucial.
With the national crown secured, Ojiro’s focus now shifts to preparing for the global contest in Puerto Rico.
The 75th edition of Miss Universe will bring together titleholders from countries around the world in a celebration of culture, diversity and female leadership.
