Elma Challa Kapel, the former Miss Tourism Uganda 2017, is trading her crown for a seat in Parliament.
The 27-year-old beauty queen-turned-politician is vying for the Northern region Youth Member of Parliament position in the upcoming general elections, running on the National Resistance Movement (NRM) ticket.
With a background in beauty pageants, youth advocacy, and community development, Kapel is determined to bring positive change to Northern Uganda.
A Natural Transition to Politics
For Kapel, the move from beauty pageants to politics feels like a natural progression.
“The beauty contests of my youth instilled a competitive spirit in me,” she said. “Having completed my term as Miss Tourism Uganda, I acquired useful skills which I think are required for political success. I believe the time to serve from a higher level is now.”
Her tenure as Miss Tourism Uganda not only honed her leadership skills but also connected her with influential figures, including former Speaker of Parliament Rebecca Kadaga.
Kapel recalled a pivotal moment during the launch of the ‘Go Green Karamoja’ project, where Kadaga encouraged her to pursue leadership roles.
“She told me that I possessed the qualities of a leader and could fit into a higher role in the future,” Kapel shared.
A Vision for Northern Uganda
Kapel describes herself as a dynamic leader, youth advocate, and champion of economic empowerment.
“Armed with a strong background in community development, entrepreneurship, tourism, and governance, I have centered my career around advocating for the voice of the youth and building sustainable opportunities for them in Uganda,” she said.
Her vision for Northern Uganda is deeply rooted in her personal experiences.
Growing up in Kotido District, one of the poorest regions in Uganda, Kapel understands the challenges faced by young people in the area.
“I am not a politician of empty promises but a leader marked by flexibility, dynamism, and a desire to translate ideas into concrete action,” she emphasized.
Academic and Professional Credentials
Kapel’s academic qualifications further underscore her readiness for the role.
She is currently pursuing a Master’s in Global Logistics, Operations, and Supply Chain Management at Northumbria University in the UK.
She also holds a First-Class degree in Global Business Management from the University of Northampton and a Bachelor’s degree in Media and Drama from Cardiff Metropolitan University.
Her professional experience includes serving as the Program Officer for the International Organization for Migration (IOM), where she focused on youth engagement in economic development.
She has also represented Uganda as the country representative for the Ateker International Development Organisation (AIDO), advocating for cultural preservation and community development.
Key Priorities as Youth MP
If elected, Kapel’s top priorities will include:
- Youth Employment and Entrepreneurship: Promoting innovation and skills development to create sustainable job opportunities.
- Education and Vocational Training: Improving access to quality education and vocational programs.
- Cultural Tourism: Leveraging Northern Uganda’s cultural heritage to spur economic growth.
“My goal is to ensure that young people in Northern Uganda have the tools and opportunities they need to thrive,” Kapel said.
A Fresh Face in Ugandan Politics
Elma Kapel’s candidacy represents a fresh and inspiring perspective in Ugandan politics.
Her unique blend of beauty pageantry experience, academic excellence, and professional achievements sets her apart as a dynamic and action-oriented leader.
As election day approaches, Kapel’s campaign is gaining momentum, with many seeing her as a beacon of hope for Northern Uganda’s youth.
Her journey from beauty queen to politician is a testament to her determination to create meaningful change.
