Forget the runway for a moment.
On Friday night, the 22 Miss Uganda finalists left the sashes and pageant poses behind and took to the stage at Arirang Hotel, where dance, music, poetry, drama, fashion and visual art became the real competition.
The Miss Uganda Talent Night, held in partnership with V&A Sherry, gave the finalists an opportunity to show audiences that there is considerably more to a beauty queen than how she walks, poses or answers questions on stage.
From traditional Kiganda dance to Amapiano, poetry, painting and tie-and-dye, the evening became a colourful showcase of Ugandan talent and influences from beyond the country's borders.
Dance dominated much of the evening.
Shanda Nalumu used movement to tell stories inspired by different cultures, while Hilda Naluwu of Buikwe took the audience into the world of Kiganda dance with performances of Bakisimba, Nankasa and Muwogola.
Her performance even turned into an impromptu dance-off when an audience member joined her on stage, exchanging moves as the crowd cheered them on.
The younger, more contemporary side of the evening followed.
Victoria Atim delivered a pop and dancehall routine, while Angel Liz Murungi blended Amapiano, electronic dance and Lingala. Hilab Jasmin Kagabo brought an Indian dance performance, while Halima Nabende showcased the energetic Kadodi dance.
Music offered another side of the finalists.
Faith Nabirye Magero performed Brian Lubega's Nungamya, while Shivan Owomugisha took on My Valentine, giving the evening moments that were as much about vocal ability as they were about pageantry.
Poetry slowed things down.
Peace Baliwaali explored themes of purpose and empowerment, while Anita Azoa Acero used poetry to reflect on beauty.
Drama, meanwhile, allowed some of the finalists to tackle heavier social themes.
Catherine Taneta presented a piece addressing domestic violence, while Maria Joyce Arinda and Tabitha Besigye used skits to explore issues around women's empowerment, respect and education.
The creative showcase extended beyond performance.
Rukia Balunywa presented her designs through models, Sophie Asianzu demonstrated her painting skills, while Nakato Bridget Prudence showcased vibrant tie-and-dye creations.
The finalists also took charge of the evening's hosting duties.
Murungi Angel Liz and Hilab Jasmin Kagabo served as the main MCs, supported by Arinda, while other contestants also stepped onto the stage for performances.
For V&A Sherry Brand Manager Roy Ronald Tumwizere, the talent night reflects the brand's continued involvement in the Miss Uganda journey.
“V&A Sherry believes in creating opportunities for Ugandan talent to be seen, celebrated and supported,” Tumwizere said.
“Our choice to partner with Miss Uganda for now four years has given these young women who participate in the contest a platform to express who they are. Our support is also rooted in our commitment to women's empowerment and helping them confidently take their place in society.”
Away from the performances, the evening also carried an important competitive element.
Supporters were encouraged to continue voting for their favourite finalists in the popularity vote, with the winner earning an automatic place among the top five at the grand finale.
The winner of the Talent Night, who will be crowned Miss Talent, will be announced at the Miss Uganda grand finale on October 10 at Sheraton Kampala Hotel.
That is where the bigger crown awaits, as Uganda's next Miss Uganda for the 2026/2027 reign will be crowned.
But before one woman takes the title, Talent Night offered the finalists something equally valuable: a stage on which to show the country what lies beyond the crown.
Event details
Event: Miss Uganda Talent Night
Date: Friday, September 25, 2026
Venue: Arirang Hotel
Finalists: 22
Partner: V&A Sherry
Grand Finale: October 10, 2026
Grand Finale Venue: Sheraton Kampala Hotel