Caroline Adel Jusu, a 24-year-old from Sierra Leone, has taken the stage at the Miss Grand International 2026 pageant in Bangkok. The grand final is scheduled for Saturday, 10 October, at the MGI Hall. Jusu's participation is significant as Sierra Leone has not had a contestant in the pageant since 2020. Her presence has generated excitement among supporters back home and abroad.
Jusu secured her spot at the international pageant by winning the Miss Grand Sierra Leone title on 26 June 2026 at the Bintumani Auditorium in Aberdeen. Prior to this, she made headlines in October 2023 as the first runner-up at Miss Sierra Leone. Despite not winning the top prize, Jusu continued her pageantry journey, competing in Miss Global 2023 in Vietnam and Cambodia in January 2024.
Jusu's commitment to the "Stop the War and Violence" theme has been highlighted by Miss Grand International. She believes that one voice can inspire positive change. For the pageant, Jusu wore a costume named "Lion Mountain — From the Mountains to the Atlantic Ocean," designed by Artakarach Design. The outfit features a moss-covered peak with a lion's face, symbolising Sierra Leone's strength and resilience.
The costume reflects Sierra Leone's natural beauty and mineral wealth, incorporating colours from the national flag. Jusu's educational background includes studying at Annie Walsh Memorial School and Milton Margai Technical University. Professionally, she works in digital marketing and founded Diary of a Street Child to support orphans in Sierra Leone.
As the final approaches, preliminary scores, along with swimsuit rounds and interviews, will determine the top 20 contestants. The winners for Best Evening Gown and Best National Costume will be announced that night. Emma Tiglao of the Philippines will crown her successor. The event was relocated to Thailand in September 2026, having been initially planned for India.
Supporters, both at home and abroad, are eagerly watching to see how far Jusu will take the nation's flag in the competition. Her participation has generated a lot of interest, with many hoping she will make a strong impression. The pageant provides a platform for Jusu to showcase Sierra Leone's culture and beauty to a global audience.
The Miss Grand International 2026 pageant has brought together contestants from around the world, all vying for the top prize. Jusu's journey serves as an inspiration to many young women in Sierra Leone, demonstrating the importance of perseverance and hard work. Her experience will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on her life and career.
Key points
- Caroline Adel Jusu is the first Sierra Leonean contestant in Miss Grand International since 2020.
- Jusu's costume, "Lion Mountain — From the Mountains to the Atlantic Ocean," reflects Sierra Leone's natural beauty and mineral wealth.
- The Miss Grand International 2026 grand final is scheduled for Saturday, 10 October, at the MGI Hall in Bangkok.
