Graduate and beauty pageant winner making a difference in Africa

A University of Wolverhampton graduate, and an award-winning beauty pageant winner, is continuing to make strides in helping and supporting communities in Africa.  

The journey of being involved in beauty pageants began in 2017 for Amanda Ngcono Nkomo when she was crowned Miss Zimbabwe UK. And since then, Amanda has not looked back.  

In 2019, Amanda set up the Ngcono Mbowane Foundation, with the mission of helping and supporting those in developing countries in Africa to be able to live stable and fulfilling lives by assisting with necessities such as school supplies, sanitary pads for girls, clothing, food, workshops and project work.  

Three years later, in 2022, Amanda’s charity work was recognised with an international award win in Ghana for the impact the charity was making in Africa. And it was in this same year Amanda graduated from the University of Wolverhampton in Health Studies.  

Reflecting on the course, Amanda said: “My favourite memories from the Health Studies course were the different modules we got to cover and learn about. My whole experience with the University was so enjoyable and I’m hoping to progress with further education in the future too.”  

Since graduating, the 25-year-old has published her first children’s book, The New Comer, and appeared in GQ South Africa in March last year talking about her charity work.  

Amanda also had the privilege of representing Zimbabwe at the Miss Globe beauty pageant competition held in Albania in November 2023.  

She has also been shortlisted for the Humanitarian Award at the University’s 2024 Alumni Awards, with the ceremony to be held on 7 November.  

As part of her current role, Amanda is working alongside teachers and local authorities to support young children and teenagers across Africa.  

On her achievements to date, Amanda said: “There have been so many achievements in my life, including graduating from the University of Wolverhampton, which I‘m incredibly proud of. It’s been amazing to travel the world to work on different projects and attend many amazing events. But the best is yet to come.”  

For anyone thinking of studying at the University, Amanda said: “The best advice I would give is to enjoy the experience, be open-minded to make new friends, try new activities and hobbies and really put yourself out there.  

“Get involved within the University as well and try to attend events - it’s a really great experience. I would also say if you need any support to always reach out as the University gives the best support and guidance.” 

To find out more about graduate success, check out the Every Story Has a Start web page which showcases our exceptional alumni across the globe doing incredible things. High achievers from the worlds of literature, business, sport, film and the arts feature, sharing how their lives and careers have developed since their days studying with us.   

After graduation, graduates become members of the Alumni Association and are encouraged to keep in touch, to take advantage of a wide range of benefits and support on offer, including a discount for postgraduate study.   

To learn more about the University’s Alumni Association please visit here, where graduates can also update their details with the Association. 

The Clearing hotline number is 01902 323 232 for anyone looking for courses starting in September and to find out more about our Open Days, visit our website.