When you think of Safiétou Kabengele, Miss Grand France, it’s easy to focus on her titles and achievements. But behind the crown is a woman full of passion, purpose, and pride in her heritage. Safiétou’s journey is about more than just competing or winning; it’s about using her platform to inspire confidence and encourage others to embrace their uniqueness.
Safiétou Kabengele may be Miss Grand France, but there’s much more to her than a sash and crown. “I am, above all, a passionate, authentic, and committed woman,” she says. Beyond the accolades, Safiétou defines herself as someone deeply rooted in her heritage, proud of her Franco-Senegalese-Congolese identity, and driven to inspire younger generations. “I believe in boldness, self-confidence, and the richness of our roots. These values guide everything I do,” she shares with a quiet conviction that speaks volumes.
When asked to describe herself in three words, Safiétou chooses “bold, authentic, and resilient.” Each word is a reflection of her journey. “Bold, because I’m always ready to step out of my comfort zone. Authentic, because I stay true to myself and my values. Resilient, because every challenge I’ve faced has made me stronger and more determined to succeed,” she explains. These qualities have not only shaped her career but also helped her build a legacy that inspires others.
Her path into modeling, runway coaching, and pageantry was not a straight one, but it was always purposeful. “This journey started with a desire to redefine beauty and encourage women to embrace their uniqueness,” she recalls. What began as a personal mission has grown into something much larger. Today, she is focused on empowering others, using her experience to guide women in building confidence both on and off the stage.
Of course, Safiétou’s bold, bald look has become one of her defining traits. It’s more than a fashion statement—it’s a declaration of individuality. “This look reflects my vision of beauty: it goes beyond standards and comes from the confidence you project,” she says. Choosing to shave her head wasn’t just a stylistic decision; it was a way to stand out in an industry that often prioritizes uniformity. “It allowed me to affirm myself and show that our uniqueness is our greatest strength,” she shares.
There are many moments in Safiétou’s career that she’s proud of, but one stands out above the rest. “Speaking at a forum in Senegal with students was one of my proudest moments,” she says. “It proved to me that my message now resonates internationally, even in my countries of origin. Seeing how my values of boldness and self-confidence inspire younger generations is my greatest joy.” This moment exemplifies what her career is really about: impact, not just appearances.
Her heritage is central to everything she does. With roots in France, Senegal, and Congo, Safiétou finds strength in the cultural richness that defines her. “My roots inspire my style, blending modernity and tradition,” she says. They also influence her creative collaborations, where she consistently celebrates the diversity and beauty of her background.
Safiétou understands the importance of representation, especially in the fashion and beauty industries. She hopes her story will inspire others, particularly young women from multicultural backgrounds. “I want every young woman to understand that their differences are their greatest strength,” she says. “Through my journey, I hope to show them that with boldness, determination, and authenticity, they can break barriers and achieve great things.”
When she isn’t blazing trails in the fashion world, Safiétou dreams of trading places with two iconic women: Michelle Obama and Oprah Winfrey. “They embody leadership, elegance, and inspiration,” she says. She admires their ability to connect with people and make a lasting impact. “Both women are icons of power and positive influence. I would love to experience how they motivate millions around the world.”
While Safiétou’s public persona is one of glamour and confidence, there’s a quieter, more personal side to her. “What many don’t know is how deeply I value simple moments with my family and loved ones,” she reveals. These moments provide balance and remind her of what truly matters, even amid a busy and demanding career.
Her journey hasn’t been without challenges. Early in her career, she struggled with self-doubt, particularly in an industry that often imposes narrow beauty standards. “The turning point for me was realizing that my uniqueness—my bald look, my heritage, my authenticity—was my superpower,” she says. “I overcame it by embracing who I truly am and surrounding myself with people who believe in me.” This lesson is one she carries with her every day, and one she hopes to pass on to others.
Staying authentic in the public eye is no easy task, but Safiétou has found ways to manage the pressure. “I remind myself daily that I am in this position not to please everyone but to inspire, empower, and represent,” she says. Time spent with family, moments of reflection, and indulging in her favorite activities all help her stay grounded.
Looking to the future, Safiétou’s ambitions are as dynamic as her career so far. Through her association, APESH (Support for Parents of Children with Disabilities), she is dedicated to providing resources and assistance to families in need. At the same time, she’s eager to explore the entertainment industry, with dreams of becoming a presenter and actress. “I want to balance showbiz and charity, staying approachable and inspiring,” she says. Her ultimate goal? To prove that it’s possible to thrive in multiple fields while using her platform to create meaningful change.
When asked what advice she would give to anyone chasing their dreams, Safiétou doesn’t hesitate. “Be bold, be patient, and stay true to yourself. Dreams don’t happen overnight, but every step—even the setbacks—is shaping you for your breakthrough,” she says. “Celebrate your uniqueness because that’s what makes you stand out. And most importantly, don’t be afraid to take risks. The path might not always be clear, but trust yourself and trust the process.”
Through her work, her story, and her unwavering belief in the power of self-confidence, Safiétou Kabengele is inspiring a new generation to dream big, dare greatly, and never apologize for being exactly who they are.
