INITIATIVE NEWS: Sasakawa Leprosy (Hansen’s Disease) Initiative launches cooperative relationship with the Miss Supranational Organization

Miss Supranational contestants from 65 countries learned about Hansen’s disease and related human rights issues at a forum hosted by the Sasakawa Leprosy (Hansen’s Disease) Initiative on July 5, 2023.

Miss Supranational is an international beauty pageant that emphasizes natural grace and community service. In 2020, the Miss Supranational Organization launched “From the Ground Up,” an initiative meant to encourage grassroots projects that address local needs. This year’s contestants showcased projects addressing issues such as education for disadvantaged youth and environmental sustainability. While contestants representing 65 countries were gathered in Poland for this year’s competition, the Sasakawa Leprosy (Hansen’s Disease) Initiative launched a collaborative relationship with the Miss Supranational Organization by hosting a two-hour Miss Supranational Hansen’s Disease Forum on July 5. The Initiative hopes that contestants will use their platforms to inspire more people to learn about the disease and what they can do to eliminate stigma and discrimination.