In a world that often measures worth by height, fame, or privilege, Barrister Mariam Anifowoshe, the first-ever Miss Epe Local Government and the Yeye Mofin of Ilara Kingdom, stands as proof that true greatness has little to do with inches or crowns, it’s about courage, resilience, and purpose.
At the grand finale of the 10th anniversary celebration of the Epe Division Professional Women Association (EPWA), the respected legal luminary took the stage, not as a beauty queen, but as a voice for women who refuse to be confined by circumstances. Her address, both a tribute and call to action, stirred hearts and evoked admiration from the audience of distinguished professionals.
“I’m so surprised at the milestones achieved by the EPWANS,” she began with warmth, her voice carrying both nostalgia and pride. “My diaspora sister is a member and has always encouraged me to join this noble association. I have a judge who was my director at work as a member. An association with Permanent Secretaries, Professors, General Managers, Directors, and other professionals is astonishing. Honestly, it’s an honor to stand before you.”
Her humility was infectious, but what followed was deeply personal. Recalling her early days in Epe, she painted a picture of determination shaped by humble beginnings. “Growing up in Epe wasn’t easy,” she confessed. “And I must say, I’m the most lucky female out of the town.”
Then came the story that brought the hall to a still hush; the birth of her journey as Miss Epe Local Government. With emotion, she shared how that small-town title became a springboard to greater opportunities. “I’ll say this for posterity’s sake because I’ve watched all the activities of EPWA on the screen but the only thing missing is what I stood for; which is a platform and that’s Miss Epe Local Government,” she said. “I was the first Miss Epe Local Government and as little as I was, I got called to represent Epe on the broader Lagos platform.”
Her memory of the experience was not one of glamour, but of gratitude. “Although I didn’t go far with the pageantry due to my short height,” she revealed with a chuckle, “I was able to get something out of it. The Local Government gave me a scholarship which I benefited from for four years.”
That scholarship, she said, changed her life; and it is that same opportunity she wants to recreate for others through EPWA. “I’m appealing to EPWA to include pageantry as one of their social activities,” she urged passionately. “So many beautiful, intelligent females may want to do pageantry like I did, because I was made to meet so many big personalities from Epe.”
Her appeal wasn’t about vanity; it was about visibility. To her, pageantry can be more than a parade of beauty; it can be a platform for ambition, education, and empowerment for young women who dream beyond their beginnings.
As a lawyer, community figure, and advocate, Barrister Anifowoshe understands the structural challenges women still face in Nigeria’s social and professional landscape. Her voice grew firm as she said, “For females to thrive, for women to become something in this harsh reality of Nigeria, Lagos State, and Epe Division, we still need help, despite that some of us came from good homes and had to do so many things growing up.”
Her message to EPWA was clear; keep the torch burning. “Keep doing what you’re doing, EPWA,” she concluded, “I’m proud of your landmark achievements.”
In a gathering celebrating women of substance, Barrister Mariam Anifowoshe reminded everyone that empowerment is not one-size-fits-all. Sometimes, it starts with a crown. Sometimes, with a scholarship. And sometimes, with a woman who was once told she wasn’t tall enough but chose to stand taller than anyone expected.
