Bonny M | October 28, 2025
Photographer | Taz_Photos
Makeup Artist |glamedwithgladice
Hair Stylist | traychic_designs
Assisted by | Leva
Born in Ireland to Congolese parents, Bénédicte embodies the essence of dual identity, a proud reflection of her heritage and the values she carries forward. The eldest of four, she grew up in Dublin and recently graduated from UCD before pursuing a Master’s in International Relations at DCU. A scholar, advocate, and queen, she represents a new generation of young women who merge intellect, culture, and compassion in everything they do.
Her journey into pageantry began with curiosity. “Miss Congo Éireann had been at the back of my mind for a few years,” she shares. “When a friend of mine won a pageant, it made me want to do it even more. I loved that it meant representing my country here in Ireland.”
At 21, Bénédicte entered her first-ever pageant, Miss Congo Éireann, not knowing it would open a new chapter of growth and purpose. “I used to think pageants were just about walking and wearing a crown, but it’s so much deeper. It’s a chance to grow, represent my culture, and use my voice.”
One of her most meaningful experiences came shortly after being crowned, during a march against gender-based violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo on International Women’s Day. “That was when I realised this wasn’t just a title. It was a calling, a responsibility to speak up for something that matters.”
Through her reign, Bénédicte has embraced the balance between glamour and advocacy. Yet, she admits, the journey hasn’t been without challenges. “I’ve had to learn not to put too much pressure on myself. When you’re representing something bigger than yourself, you can feel like you have to be perfect all the time. I’ve learned to stay grounded in my faith and to remember that this platform is about inspiring others, not being flawless.”
When asked who inspires her, she mentions Miss Universe Ireland 2024, Sofia Labus. “She showed me that pageantry isn’t just a competition; it’s a sisterhood where women lift each other up.” Alongside Sofia, her family, friends, and the Miss Congo Éireann team have been the steady pillars behind her success.
Her ability to balance pageant duties, academics, and personal wellbeing speaks volumes about her discipline and priorities. “My education and health always come first. I’m lucky to have a team that understands that and supports my goals.”
Despite being raised in Ireland, her Congolese roots are a constant source of pride and strength. “Even in the diaspora, we hold tightly to our traditions our music, food, and language. I’m especially proud that young people in our community still speak Lingala. It shows how deeply we love and value our culture.”
As Miss Congo Éireann, Bénédicte promotes three key values, education, confidence, and kindness.
“Education has shaped my life, and I want other girls to have that opportunity. Confidence is what helps you believe in yourself. And kindness, because how you treat people is what really lasts.”
With her eyes set on the future, Bénédicte continues to use her platform to advocate for girls’ education and community empowerment. “Empowerment is about creating spaces where young women feel seen and confident to lead. If even one girl feels inspired by what I do, then I know I’m using my platform in the right way.”
Beyond pageantry, she envisions a career in diplomacy, working to represent underrepresented voices on international platforms. “Whatever I do, I want to lead with compassion and purpose,” she says.
Her reign has taught her invaluable lessons, balance, consistency, and the importance of small acts of kindness. “The little things matter. A kind word, showing up, being consistent, those are what people remember most.” In every word and action, Bénédicte radiates poise, intelligence, and sincerity, proof that true beauty lies not in perfection, but in purpose.
How do you envision your life and career after your reign ends?
After my reign, I’ll keep building on what I’ve started. I’m doing my master’s and will start my teaching role in a few weeks. I don’t know exactly where teaching will take me yet, but I do know that education and leadership will stay at the centre of what I do. Whether that leads me into classrooms, diplomacy, or international policy work, my focus will always be on using my voice to uplift others and create opportunities, especially for young women and girls.
Is there anything else you’d like our readers to know about you?
I’d just like people to know that beyond the crown, I’m still just a student, a daughter, a young woman figuring things out like everyone else. This journey has been incredible, but it doesn’t mean I have it all together. I’m learning, growing, and making mistakes along the way, just like anybody else. What matters to me is staying true to who I am and using what I’ve been given to hopefully inspire and uplift others.