At just 13 years old, Michela Amato has mastered the subtle art of pageantry such that her elegance strikes so sharp; oh yes, it is practically impossible to ignore. A student at Kabojja International School, this little cherub currently holds the prestigious title of Little Miss Global 2024, a historic win that made her the first Ugandan to claim the crown. She is also the former Little Miss Uganda (2022–2023) and a dedicated child rights advocate, passionately promoting education for young children. If you are interested in working with Michela, hit her Instagram DM here.
Aside from her advocacy, Michela is also a model known for always having a smile on her face, an artist, and a lover of architecture, hairstyling, and makeup.
Who is Michela Amato?
Michela Amato is the titleholder of Little Miss Global 2024 and former Little Miss Uganda (2022–2023), as well as a passionate child rights advocate. She is a student at Kabojja International School, where she balances academics with her love for modeling, advocacy, architecture, art, and beauty. Born on December 17, 2011, to an Italian father, Vincenzo Amato, and a Ugandan mother, Betty Katusiime, Michela proudly identifies as half Italian and half Ugandan.
She was born and raised in Kampala, Uganda, and has used her platform to promote education and inspire young girls. Beyond pageantry, she is the founder of the Amato Foundation, an initiative dedicated to supporting children’s education by providing scholastic materials and school fees for those in need. Known for her warm smile, humility, and determination, she continues to make a lasting impact in both the pageant world and her community.
A Passion for Pageantry and the Arts
Born on December 17, 2011, Michela is the daughter of Vincenzo Amato, an Italian, and Betty Katusiime, a Ugandan from the Munnyoro tribe. She proudly identifies as half Italian and half Ugandan and was born and raised in Kampala, Uganda.
When asked about her family, she speaks with deep affection, saying, “The best thing about my family is that we are all connected. There is love, support, and affection, and I have never felt safer anywhere else.”
How did Michela Amato win the Little Miss Global Title
Winning Little Miss Global 2024 was a dream come true for Michela. She recalls the moment as overwhelmingly emotional. “That was the first time I cried when being crowned. I had always heard that when something is truly meant for you, you cry. I will always thank God for that opportunity.”
At that moment, her mind was filled with gratitude. “I was thanking God for the opportunity, for being spiritually present, and for supporting me through everything.” She also acknowledged her parents for their sacrifices. “They supported me, provided everything I needed, including my dresses, and encouraged me throughout the journey.”
So, how did Michela Amato get ready for the stiff competition?
Michela’s journey to the crown was not easy. She trained rigorously, spending four hours daily after school perfecting her walk, Q&A responses, and stage presence. Her dedication paid off, and she worked with some of Uganda’s best pageant trainers, including Miss Rian Patezy.
Despite her intense preparation, stepping into the competition was intimidating. “The other contestants had a fierce presence, their makeup was stunning, and their outfits were next-level. It was something I had never seen in Uganda.” But instead of letting it overwhelm her, she used it as motivation to build confidence and perform her best.
One of the toughest challenges she faced was the Q&A session. “I was scared I wouldn’t know the answers, but then I remembered that I had won ‘Best Deep Interview’ before. That gave me the courage to do my best, and I won.”
What does it mean to win Little Miss Global?
For Michela, winning Little Miss Global was more than just a title—it was history in the making. “I was the first Ugandan to ever step onto that stage, to raise our flag that high, and to win.”
Her win has opened doors for young Ugandan girls in pageantry and inspired many to dream big. “I became a role model to many kids out there, and I even started training young winners. Seeing them succeed has been one of my greatest achievements.”
Handling Fame and Staying Grounded
Despite the attention that comes with being a titleholder, Michela remains humble. “I was raised in a humble home. I stay kind, true to myself, and treat everyone with respect. I focus on what makes me unique instead of trying to please everyone.”
The Amato Foundation: Giving Back to the Community
One of Michela’s biggest achievements beyond pageantry is founding the Amato Foundation, an initiative dedicated to providing scholastic materials and school fees for underprivileged children.
“I launched the foundation two years ago. We gave out school supplies and paid fees for kids who really needed it. It was an amazing experience, and I want to continue expanding it.”
Memorable Moments and Personal Interests
Among Michela’s most cherished memories was making lifelong friendships through the competition. “I met Keza through Little Miss Global, and she has been a great friend. Also, when I returned to Malaysia for the crowning, I reunited with my fellow contestants after a whole year apart.”
Beyond pageantry, Michela enjoys reading books, playing with her three puppies, and exploring architecture through creative building games. Her favorite subject in school is art, as she loves working with colors, shading, and different artistic techniques.
What are Her Biggest Inspirations?
Michela’s greatest inspiration comes from her parents. She credits her father, Vincenzo Amato, as her biggest supporter. “When I won, he was the happiest. He kept talking about my victory to everyone. He has always been there for me, financially and emotionally, and I’m so grateful.”
She also deeply admires her mother, Betty Katusiime, calling her “my manager, my bodyguard, my second and also first supporter.” She adds, “Whenever I travel, I feel safe because she’s there with me. Without her, I wouldn’t be as confident.”
What does Michela Amato do when life gets hard?
When facing difficulties, Michela finds strength in prayer. “I used to take prayer for granted until I truly started. Then I realized how powerful it is. It helped me find a new version of myself.”
What do we learn from Michela Amato?
Michela’s journey is far from over. With her focus on advocacy, mentorship, and expanding the Amato Foundation, she continues to inspire young girls across Uganda and beyond. Her story is one of hard work, resilience, and an unwavering belief in one’s dreams. As she puts it: “All my hard work has been worth it. I will keep pushing, keep believing, and keep raising the Ugandan flag high.”
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