Horcelie Sinda Wa Mbongo who was diagnosed with HIV-positive at the age of 11 has won the 2017 edition of the Miss Congo UK beauty pageant. The grand finale was held at the Stratford Town Hall in London.

The gorgeous lady hails from the Democratic Republic of Congo, but is presently studying  in London, pursuing a Fine Arts degree.

Post her magnificent win at the pageant she has plans to return to Congo, and help promote campaigns on HIV and AIDS, with a youth-led group called Youth Stop AIDS, which campaigns “for a world without AIDS.

Horcelie says, “I’m happy I’ve won at least something in my life. My story has warmed people’s hearts and that’s the most important thing,” she said, hoping her story will be able to serve as a motivation for many.”