Veralyn Neseh Vonleh was crowned Miss Liberia in 2022 and later represented the country at the Miss World 2024 pageant, an achievement that, on paper, reflects prestige and national pride. Yet, more than two years into her reign, a growing number of Liberians are raising concerns about the visibility, impact, and overall relevance of the Miss Liberia crown.
Across social and cultural spaces, a troubling question is increasingly being asked: Does Liberia still feel like it has an active Miss Liberia? For many observers, the answer is uncertain.
Since 2022, the Miss Liberia title has maintained a noticeably low public profile. Unlike previous reigns, there have been few nationally recognized initiatives, limited media engagement, and no widely known flagship project directly associated with the crown. As a result, public awareness and emotional connection to Miss Liberia appear to have weakened.
Ironically, in today’s beauty pageant landscape, many Liberians can more readily identify Miss Earth Liberia than Miss Liberia herself. Within pageantry circles, aspiring contestants reportedly express greater interest in competing for Miss Earth Liberia, citing stronger branding, clearer purpose, and more visible impact. For a title traditionally regarded as Liberia’s premier beauty crown, this shift is significant.
Comparisons have inevitably been drawn with past titleholders, particularly Wokie Dolo. During her tenure, Miss Liberia enjoyed strong media presence, bold advocacy, and continuous public engagement. Her reign, though not without controversy, was marked by innovation, resilience, and visibility both at home and abroad. Supporters argue that her willingness to engage criticism head-on and maintain a strong public voice helped solidify the crown’s relevance during her era.
In contrast, critics say the current reign feels muted. While Veralyn Vonleh officially holds the same title, the perceived absence of consistent public activity has fueled narratives of stagnation. Beyond the queen herself, questions are also being directed at the Miss Liberia Organization, which has yet to clearly outline long-term projects, timelines, or a strategic vision for the crown since 2022.
Observers note that Miss Earth Liberia has steadily evolved into one of the most structured and respected pageant platforms in the country, benefiting from clear messaging, consistent programming, and visible environmental advocacy. Meanwhile, Miss Liberia, once the standard-bearer, now risks being overshadowed.
At the heart of the criticism is not personal animosity but concern for the brand. Many stakeholders argue that the Miss Liberia crown should represent national leadership, inspiration, and service, not silence. Without stronger media engagement, community outreach, and transparent planning, the title risks becoming symbolic rather than influential.
As public scrutiny grows, the call is becoming louder: for Miss Liberia to reclaim its place, both the queen and the organizers must reengage, reconnect with the public, and redefine the purpose of the crown in today’s Liberia. Otherwise, what was once the nation’s most powerful beauty platform may continue to fade into the background.
