In a country where misconceptions, discrimination, and deep-rooted stigma still surround people with albinism, Daniella Boima Garrick, 21, is rewriting the narrative — with confidence, purpose, and striking poise. On June 28, 2025, she will represent Sierra Leone at the first-ever Mr. & Miss Albinism Africa pageant, taking place in Harare, Zimbabwe.

A student of Public Health at Milton Margai Technical University, Daniella is not just a model. She’s a voice, a force, and a blueprint for resilience. She serves as the Ambassador and Gender Welfare Safeguarding Officer for the Sierra Leone Association of Persons with Albinism (SLAPWA) and is also the National Youth Leader for the Sierra Leone Union on Disability Issues.

A Beauty Beyond the Surface

Her journey into modeling began in 2021 after a spontaneous photo shoot. The positive response she received on social media was more than just flattery — it ignited a flame.

“The shoot instilled confidence in me to feel comfortable in my skin,” she said. “I want to share that positive energy with younger girls with albinism. Modeling is not just about clothes or poses; it’s a form of storytelling.”

But behind the lens and the fashion, Garrick carries a bigger mission — challenging beauty standards and amplifying the voices of those too often silenced. Living with albinism in Sierra Leone means battling constant scrutiny, harmful myths, and exclusion from education, healthcare, and employment.

“People say we don’t die, we disappear. Some restrict what we eat. And most of these things come from our own families. These messages break our spirit and affect our mental health,” she shared.

Despite it all, Garrick stands tall — not just for herself, but for every young girl who has been made to feel less than. She believes modeling can serve as a symbol of power and pride, especially for women and girls with albinism.

Daniella Garrick first photoshoot that went viral/ Niella Rik Facebook

Daniella Boima Garrick/ Niella Rik Facebook

More than a Pageant

Her upcoming participation in the Mr. & Miss Albinism Africa competition — alongside fellow Sierra Leonean Hamid Mo Kamara — is more than just a runway moment. It’s a statement.

“We’re not just going to wear clothes or pose for cameras. We’re going to educate the world about Sierra Leone — about how far we’ve come and how much further we need to go.”

Through the efforts of SLAPWA, Garrick and her peers have pushed for real policy change. From leadership training for women and girls with albinism, to advocating for inclusion in the national Disability Act, their work is gaining global recognition. In fact, WHO now includes sunscreen in the list of essential medicines for every country — a direct result of persistent advocacy like theirs.

Yet, the journey is not without its hurdles. Support is still needed — financially, emotionally, and structurally.

“We call on Sierra Leoneans and friends of Sierra Leone to support us. We’re not just representing people with albinism, we’re representing the nation. It’s a big deal.”

And as Garrick steps onto the continental stage, she carries a message of hope, representation, and inclusion. She will be advocating for equal access to education, healthcare, leadership, and career opportunities for women and girls with albinism — in Sierra Leone and across the continent.

“Regardless of how we look, we are smart, talented, and capable of contributing to society. We just need the chance.”

As she prepares for the pageant, Garrick isn’t just walking the runway — she’s walking her truth. And in doing so, she’s inviting an entire nation to walk with her.

Daniella GarrickJames Tamba-Martha/VRC Media

Daniella Boima Garrick/ Niella Rik

About Mr & Miss Albinism Africa

The Mr and Miss Albinism Africa pageant was launched on January 27, 2025, in Zimbabwe by the Albinism Dare to Dream Initiative and Brenda Mudzinu. The event is dedicated to promoting diversity, inclusion, and empowerment for people with albinism across the African continent. 

More than just a beauty pageant, it serves as a platform to enhance participants’ confidence, public recognition, and advocacy skills, while also challenging harmful stereotypes and misconceptions surrounding albinism.

The grand event will take place on June 28th in Harare, Zimbabwe, alongside the African Diversity Festival, bringing together various organizations and allies committed to the rights and well-being of people with albinism. 

By celebrating the beauty, strength, and potential of individuals with albinism, the pageant aims to foster unity, raise awareness, and build bridges between communities.

Daniella Garrick (M) and her friends/ James Tamba-Martha/ VRC Media