Face of Zikel 2024 Grand Finale: Empowering Young Women, Celebrating Inner Beauty

Mary Nnah

The 6th Face of Zikel 2024 Grand Finale, held on December 7th, 2024, at Terra Kulture, Victoria Island, was a night of glamour, beauty, and empowerment.

The event, organised by Zikel Cosmetics, featured an exclusive gathering of top beauty influencers, industry leaders, and the crowning of the next Face of Zikel.

The winner of the 2024 Face of Zikel title, Nwakaihe Ifunanya Esther, a graduate of Imo State University and a fashion designer, entrepreneur, and streamer, was overwhelmed with emotion as she accepted the crown from the former Face of Zikel winner, Queen Josephine Isola.

Esther’s advocacy focuses on promoting self-acceptance and inner beauty, believing that “everyone deserves to be comfortable in their skin and shine like stars that they are.”

According to Mr. Kelvin Chinedu Ezike, Founder and CEO of Zikel Cosmetics, the 6th edition of Face of Zikel is significant, marking growth and a journey that began in 2019. “Tonight, I can’t wait to see what the finalists show us,” Ezike said, highlighting the rigorous selection process and training the contestants underwent.

Ezike emphasised that Face of Zikel aims to empower young women, providing them with skills and resources to pursue their dreams. “As a makeup artist, I realized the gap in resources and training for passionate individuals. Face of Zikel bridges this gap, offering training in aerobics, catwalk, and makeup, as well as skills that will aid them beyond the competition.”

The impact of Face of Zikel on past winners and contestants is evident, with many going on to become successful influencers, celebrities, and entrepreneurs. Ezike proudly shared that one of his contestants from 2019 now charges over a million Naira for a single Instagram post.

“We have top movie stars, politicians, and influencers who have benefited from the Face of Zikel. Our platform has grown significantly, and we’re proud of the positive stories we’ve created.”

This year’s contest introduced a twist, with 12 winners, including the Face of Zikel, first and second runners-up, and ambassadors who will be signed on paid ambassadorial deals for one year.

Ezike expressed his hope for government support and sponsorship, highlighting the importance of empowering young women and taking them off the streets. “We aim to pull as many people out of poverty as possible. We hope the government can see our vision and help us offset some of the costs.”

Looking ahead, Ezike envisions the Face of Zikel continuing to grow and evolve, making a positive impact on the lives of young women. “We hope our sponsors and government agencies can see our vision and help us. Tonight, the audience should expect a movie. These girls have been properly trained, and they are going to give us a show on the stage.”

The Face of Zikel 2024 Grand Finale was a resounding success, celebrating inner beauty, empowerment, and the potential of young women. As the curtains closed, the audience was left in awe, inspired by the talent, beauty, and determination of the contestants.

In addition to the main event, the evening featured a range of exciting activities, including a red-carpet session, live music performances, and a special awards ceremony. The event was attended by top industry professionals, celebrities, and influencers, all of whom were impressed by the talent and poise of the contestants.

As the new Face of Zikel, Nwakaihe Ifunanya Esther, takes on her new role, she is expected to serve as a brand ambassador for Zikel Cosmetics, promoting the company’s products and values throughout the year. She will also be involved in various charitable initiatives and events, using her platform to make a positive impact on her community.

Overall, the Face of Zikel 2024 Grand Finale was a truly unforgettable event, one that celebrated the beauty, talent, and potential of young women from across Nigeria. As the contest continues to grow and evolve, it is clear that it will remain a major platform for empowering and celebrating young women for years to come.