Hello, my name is Bethelehem Yebyo, I am 24 years old, and I proudly represent Eritrea. I was born in Eritrea and lived there until the age of ten. Today, I live in Switzerland, but my roots and my heart remain deeply connected to my homeland.
– Being born in Eritrea but living in Switzerland, how would you describe the mix of these two cultures in your daily life?
These two cultures are completely different, but both have shaped who I am. In Eritrea, life is calm and peaceful, people take time for everything, and community means a lot. We have nine main cultural groups: Tigrigna, Tigre, Saho, Bilen, Afar, Hedareb, Nara, Kunama, and Rashayda. I grew up surrounded by these diverse traditions. In Switzerland, life is more structured and focused on quality and precision. Living between these two worlds has taught me to value both simplicity and discipline.
– Which Eritrean tradition do you feel closest to your heart and try to maintain even while away from home?
I feel deeply connected to our traditional clothing. I love wearing Eritrean cultural dresses even while abroad it’s my way to stay close to my roots and to share the beauty of my culture with others.
– How has living in Switzerland influenced you as a person?
Living in Switzerland has made me more independent and organized. It has taught me the value of time, discipline, and respect for others while allowing me to keep my warm and joyful Eritrean spirit.
– If you had to introduce Eritrea to someone who doesn’t know it, which three aspects would you highlight?
First, I would say that Eritrea is located by the Red Sea, in the Horn of Africa. Second, I would highlight our traditional food we eat with our hands, and our national dish,in jera, is a soft flatbread served with beef stew or lentils. Third, our language and writing are unique and beautiful, with their own ancient script and history.
– What is your most special connection with your home country?
My most special connection is the feeling of belonging. Every time I hear Eritrean music or eat our traditional dishes, I feel at home no matter where I am in the world.
– How would you describe your personal style, both in everyday life and on stage?
In everyday life, my style is simple, elegant, and comfortable I like soft colors and timeless outfits. On stage, I love expressing my feminine and confident side, combining modern fashion with touches of Eritrean culture.
– Do you have any role models or icons in the fashion or entertainment world who inspire you?
I am inspired by strong women who use their voice and influence to make a positive difference. I admire those who remain humble, kind, and authentic, and who represent beauty with purpose.
– What is your greatest source of motivation during stressful or challenging moments?
My biggest source of motivation is my faith and my family. When life gets difficult, I remind myself of where I come from and how far I’ve come. Prayer, gratitude, and the desire to make my loved ones proud always give me strength.
– How does it feel to represent Eritrea in an international pageant like Miss Europe Continental?
It is a true honor. Representing Eritrea means representing our culture, our strength, and the beauty of our people. I feel proud and blessed to share a piece of my heritage with the world.
– What does the concept of “beauty” mean to you in such a global and competitive context?
For me, beauty is not just about appearance it’s about character, kindness, and confidence. True beauty comes from within; it’s about how you treat others and the light
you bring into their lives. In a global competition, being authentic is the most beautiful thing you can be.
– Where do you see yourself in five years, both personally and professionally?
In five years, I see myself growing both as a woman and as a professional in the dental field. I also hope to continue being a voice for women, inspiring them to chase their dreams with faith, discipline, and passion. I want to inspire young women to believe in themselves and never limit their potential.
Coming from a small country doesn’t mean you can’t dream big. I hope my journey shows that with courage and self-belief, anything is possible.
– How would you like to inspire young women in your country and abroad?
My biggest dream is to share the story and beauty of Eritrea with pride, and to represent African elegance on an international stage. I also wish to use this platform to promote cultural understanding, kindness, and women’s empowerment across the world.
FOLLOW HER ON INSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/bethyiiii__
