The Miss Uganda 2026 finalists traded pageant poise for the spotlight on Friday, September 25, as the Miss Uganda Foundation and V&A Sherry hosted the annual Miss Uganda Talent Night at Arirang Hotel.
The event gave all 22 finalists an opportunity to showcase talents extending far beyond the traditional pageant runway, with the evening moving through dance, music, poetry, drama, fashion and visual art.
The programme began at 8 p.m., with supporters cheering for their favourites while enjoying V&A Sherry throughout the showcase.
Roy Ronald Tumwizere, V&A Sherry Brand Manager, said the partnership reflects the brand’s commitment to supporting Ugandan talent and empowering women. This marks the fourth year V&A Sherry has supported the Miss Uganda journey.
“V&A Sherry believes in creating opportunities for Ugandan talent to be seen, celebrated and supported,” Tumwizere said. “Our choice to partner with Miss Uganda for now four years has given these young women who participate in the contest a platform to express who they are.”
Dance became one of the night’s biggest showcases, with finalists drawing from both traditional and contemporary styles.
Shanda Nalumu used movement to tell stories inspired by different cultures, while Hilda Naluwu of Buikwe performed the Kiganda dances Bakisimba, Nankasa and Muwogola. Her performance took an unexpected turn when an audience member joined her for a spontaneous dance-off.
The contemporary performances included Victoria Atim’s pop and dancehall routine, Angel Liz Murungi’s blend of Amapiano, electronic dance and Lingala, Hilab Jasmin Kagabo’s Indian dance performance and Halima Nabende’s Kadodi.
Music brought another dimension to the showcase. Faith Nabirye Magero performed Brian Lubega’s Nungamya, while Shivan Owomugisha took the stage with My Valentine.
Poetry and drama allowed the finalists to tackle more serious themes. Peace Baliwaali explored purpose and empowerment through poetry, while Anita Azoa Acero presented a piece focused on beauty.
Catherine Taneta used drama to address domestic violence, while Maria Joyce Arinda and Tabitha Besigye presented skits touching on women’s empowerment, respect and education.
The showcase also moved beyond performing arts. Rukia Balunywa presented fashion designs through models, Sophie Asianzu demonstrated her painting skills, and Nakato Bridget Prudence showcased colourful tie-and-dye creations.
The finalists also took on hosting duties, with Murungi Angel Liz and Hilab Jasmin Kagabo serving as MCs alongside Arinda. Other contestants participated in additional song and dance performances throughout the night.
Beyond showcasing talent, the event also gave the finalists another opportunity to connect with supporters ahead of the competition’s final stage.
Guests were encouraged to continue voting for their favourite contestants in the popularity vote, with the eventual winner earning an automatic place among the top five at the grand finale.
The winner of Miss Talent will be announced during the Miss Uganda grand finale on October 10 at Sheraton Kampala Hotel, where the new Miss Uganda 2026/2027 will be crowned.
For the finalists, Talent Night offered a chance to show that the competition is about more than the crown—it is also about what each contestant can bring to the stage.