Designing for Diversity – Miss Africa USA’s Reigning Queen, Advocates for Inclusive Education
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In a world that often struggles with diversity and inclusion, Ms. Snit Tewoldemedhin, the reigning Queen of Miss Africa USA, is on a mission to create a brighter future for special needs children. When she moved to the United States four years ago to study neuroscience, her journey was driven by her deep love for her sister, who has Down syndrome. Recently, she launched the “Design for Diversity” campaign, shedding light on the education of differently-abled children, such as those with Down syndrome, alongside their peers. The campaign also highlights innovative approaches that make this inclusive education possible.
Advocating for Inclusive Education
Ms. Snit Tewoldemedhin, hailing from Eritrea in East Africa, unveiled the “Design for Diversity” campaign during an event held at the Church of Scientology National Affairs Office, in partnership with Youth for Human Rights International. This campaign advocates for the integration of differently-abled children into mainstream schools, emphasizing the mutual benefits for both groups of students.
Currently a senior at George Mason University majoring in neuroscience, Ms. Tewoldemedhin is committed to developing educational tools that can support differently-abled children. Her long-term vision includes establishing a school dedicated to children with special needs, inspired by her own sister’s journey.
Miss Africa USA Empowers Women with a Purpose
The Miss Africa USA contest provides a platform for young African women in the United States to shine a spotlight on their countries of origin and share their stories with the world. Beyond the glamour, the pageant encourages contestants to address social issues close to their hearts and work towards resolving these challenges, both in the U.S. and in Africa. Many Miss Africa USA winners have taken their platform issues to various African countries to drive positive change.
Ms. Tewoldemedhin’s personal campaign for special needs youth reflects her belief that these individuals are not here to be solely helped but to help us become better humans. By accommodating and embracing diversity, we can suppress negative traits like hate and cultivate positive ones like love.
Youth for Human Rights and the 75th Anniversary of the UDHR
During the event, Ms. Beth Akiyama, Executive Director of the Church of Scientology National Affairs Office and former board member of Youth for Human Rights International (YHRI), highlighted the Youth for Human Rights campaign. YHRI is dedicated to educating youth about human rights, particularly the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), and inspiring them to become advocates for tolerance and peace.
In this 75th anniversary year of the UDHR, Ms. Akiyama urged attendees to read the booklet published by YHRI, which details each of the 30 human rights. The campaign’s aim is to create a culture of human rights that individuals can take pride in.
Creating a Culture of Human Rights
Porscha Lee Taylor, Miss DC 2016, served as the event’s emcee. The program concluded with a panel discussion on the need for more adaptive learning tools and information to support individuals with learning disabilities or other impairments. The discussion offered valuable insights into the challenges faced by families with disabled members and highlighted the importance of empathy and understanding.
The “Design for Diversity” campaign spearheaded by Ms. Snit Tewoldemedhin is a testament to the power of individuals to effect positive change. Through advocacy and education, we can create a world that celebrates diversity, respects human rights, and provides opportunities for everyone to thrive.
