11/09/2026
MEET THE FOUNDER | BEATRICE SCHNELLI-OKELLO
My name is Beatrice Schnelli-Okello, Founder of Miss Nyalenda – Empower the Beauty of Dreams.
I was born and raised in Nyalenda, Kisumu, and have lived in Switzerland since 1987. Even though life took me far from where I started, Nyalenda has always remained a part of me.
Over the years, I have built my life and career in Switzerland while staying connected to Kenya and to the community that shaped me.
As Founder and President of African Heritage Switzerland and Founder of Nyalenda Schnelli Development Group (CBO) in Kenya, I have always believed in giving back and creating opportunities for women, children and young people.
Miss Nyalenda grew from that same passion.
For me, it has never been just about beauty or a crown. It is about confidence, leadership, discovering your potential and giving young women a platform to believe in themselves and dream bigger.
My community and humanitarian work has been recognised in Kenya, Switzerland, Italy and across the African diaspora. Most recently, in August 2026, I was honoured as African Woman of the Year 2026 at the 15th Edition of The Voice Achievers Award in London, presented by The Voice News Magazine.
I am grateful for every recognition, but what matters most to me is what we do with the opportunities we receive and how we can use them to open doors for others.
I truly believe that where you come from should never determine how far you can go.
Sometimes, all someone needs is an opportunity, someone who believes in them, and a platform from which to dream bigger.
That is what Miss Nyalenda means to me.
Born in Nyalenda.
Living in Switzerland.
Building bridges between two worlds.
Creating opportunities for the next generation.
Beatrice Schnelli-Okello
Founder, Miss Nyalenda
Empower the Beauty of Dreams
Kisumu WomenEmpowerment YouthEmpowerment BuildingBridges