In the year 2008, Lilian Opondo from Kenya was
chosen to represent the
multiethnic face of Finland. During her reign, Lilian took part in and
helped organise different cultural events.
In the contest, Lilian
won both the audience and the judges over with her determination, kindness and
cheerful personality. As her talent performance, she chose to treat the
judges to her cooking that she served African style
with some of her friends. Smiling Lilian explained that she wanted to
show everyone in the audience that "there was a real woman in the house."
As The Queen of Hearts,Lilian gave speeches and interviews on issues concerning
international women in Finland. She also put together several
ethnic fashion shows. One of her objectives as a Queen was to support and promote female designers specialising in ethnic clothing.
