Ethiopian Miss World contestant spotlights pain of sister's murder

Ruth Yirgalem Weldesilasie, a 25-year-old contestant representing Ethiopia at the Miss World pageant, is using the platform to shed light on the tragic murder of her sister, Kidusan Yirgalem Weldesilasie, who disappeared before the contest and was found dead in late July. The ex-boyfriend and Kidusan's partner are among 10 suspects arrested in the case.

Ruth, who will be competing in her 75th Miss Ethiopia pageant, hopes her participation will raise awareness about the endemic violence against women and girls in Ethiopia, a deeply patriarchal society. Despite her grief, Ruth is determined to use her platform to advocate for social change, including projects focused on children's mental wellbeing and maternal health.

She reflects on her family's teachings and her role as the one who will protect her sister, seeing her presence at the Miss World pageant as a way to serve the sisterhood of women and make a difference in the world.