The annual "Mr and Ms Kibera" pageant in Nairobi, Kenya, serves as a vital platform for expression and protest, addressing critical issues like gender-based violence and freedom of speech. This 20-year-old event transcends traditional beauty contests, empowering young people from the informal settlement to voice concerns and demonstrate their potential.

• The pageant tackles issues such as gender-based violence, labelled as "femicide" by activists in Kenya, and raises awareness about youth-led demonstrations and police brutality.
• Founded by Ben Ooko, the event has helped scores of young people, including Kepha Ngito, the first Mr Kibera, secure scholarships and move out of poverty.
• Rozelda Kim, 21, crowned Ms Kibera this year, emphasized the pageant is a "microphone" to speak louder for the community, challenging negative perceptions of the area.