Flaviana MatataTanzanian beauty Flaviana Matata won the first edition of the Miss Universe Tanzania pageant in 2007, and went on to represent her country in the Miss Universe pageant the same year, where she placed 6th overall. She was the first contestant from Tanzania to compete at Miss Universe, and to compete with a shaved head. Having traveled extensively in Africa, and lived in South Africa, Flaviana wears her African pride well as she graces the runways of the international fashion world these days. She is now represented by Next Models based in New York and can regularly be spotted walking in top shows in London, Paris, and Milan.

In 2010, Flaviana became an Angel Ambassador for the Diamond Empowerment Fund and has spent time visiting D.E.F.’s beneficiary schools in Johannesburg, as well as making several appearances on behalf of the cause. Her next assignment is to be a special correspondent to the ALA DEF Scholars who have graduated and are now studying at university in the United States, and working with DEF Scholars from Tanzania on service projects around education and treatment for Malaria.

Flaviana was born and raised in the diamond mining community of Shinyanga, Tanzania and is deeply dedicated to helping the D.E.F. to fulfill its mission of empowering African youth through access to education. In her own words, she expresses her determination:

“When I was asked to visit African Leadership Academy and CIDA City Campus I had no clue as to what to expect. But the more I learnt about the schools the more exited and honored I got about the visit. The two schools have the same goal, but structured differently, each with its own unique and amazing characteristics. The most important thing is that I am glad I am part of this rewarding program. As a Diamond Empowerment Fund Angel Ambassador I will make sure the kids of Africa get the best education through DEF and other avenues.”