Liberian Ucee Guzeh, a student of Essex County College, NJ, was crowned Miss Africa New Jersey 2012 on July 27 at Prince Hall New Jersey (The Masonic Temple), Newark New Jersey. The pageant attracted hundreds of Africans, African Americans, and Hispanics. Over 40 girls registered for the pageant and auditioned to represent their countries, and 11 finalists representing 8 countries made it to the finals. These young girls from Africa were amazing, splendid, and very elegant on their respective platforms. For the first time in the garden state, African culture was on display. The following is the presentation and story of the eventual winner, Ms. Guzeh:

“Born in Monrovia, Liberia in the heat of the Civil War, I grew up hearing the sounds of guns and bullets. Walking to school was like running from my worst nightmare. I woke up every morning hoping that my precious life would not be taken away. Sometimes we would have early dismissals from school, because it was too risky and distracting to sit in class. With all these obstacles and tribulations, my mother still managed to provide food and make sure my siblings and I received a quality education. I attended the Haywood Mission School, B.W. Harris, and Christ the King Catholic School in Liberia.”

A feeling of Joy overtook her heart when her mother told her they were relocating to the United States. She knew then that she was going to accomplish the various goals that she had dreamed of. They moved to the United States at the age of thirteen. She first attended Harold Wilson Middle School, and went on to Central High School. She then enrolled in Essex County College and majored in Biology pre-Medicine.

The word “focus” motivates her life. She believes that with hard work, focus, and confidence anyone can achieve his/her goals in life. Despite challenges at Essex County College, she worked hard and was able to earn her Associate degree in Biology pre-Medicine. After witnessing the Liberian Civil war, she developed the passion to become a medical doctor to help preserve the lives of others. As an aspiring doctor, she plans on giving back to Liberia, and eventually, to other countries in Africa.

She competed for the title of Miss Africa New Jersey, because it will give her the opportunity to work with prominent and influential African leaders within the community. She believes that such an exposure, connections, and clout, will help her make a big difference in the lives of others. With determination and a passion for performing on stage, Ucee captured Miss Africa New Jersey in style. Congratulations!!

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