Mosunmola Akinmusayo is an award winning beauty queen, model, and digital creator whose influence transcends borders. She currently reigns as Miss Ideal Nigeria Tourism, a title that reflects her elegance, poise, and clear sense of purpose. Recognized as the Most Outstanding Beauty of the Year, Mosunmola’s presence commands attention both on and off the runway. She was also awarded the Most Influential and Fashionable Model of the Year, affirming her status as a leading force in fashion, beauty, and modern influence.
Beyond fashion and beauty, Mosunmola is the founder of The Taiwo Initiative, a purpose driven project dedicated to inspiring creativity, confidence, and environmental awareness among children and teenagers. Through art based activities and sustainable practices, the initiative empowers young minds to find value in themselves and their environment by transforming waste materials into meaningful art, promoting self worth, responsibility, and environmental consciousness. In this interview with Fourwall Magazine, she shared about her journey in the pageant industry, winning a new crown and what is next for her.
Congratulations on emerging Miss Ideal Nigeria Tourism. How does this make you feel?
It feels surreal and deeply grounding at the same time. I feel honored, grateful, and very aware of the responsibility that comes with the crown. This win is not just about celebration, it is about service. It reminds me that purpose always speaks louder when you are prepared to listen.
How did your journey in pageantry begin?
My journey began from a place of curiosity and self expression. I was drawn to pageantry not just for the beauty, but for the voice it gives women. Over time, it evolved into a platform where I could speak, lead, and represent values I truly believe in.
What would you say set you apart from others?
Authenticity. I did not try to fit into a mold. I showed up as myself, with clarity, compassion, and conviction. I believe people connect more with truth than perfection, and I leaned fully into that.
What challenges did you face during the pageant, and how did you overcome them?
There were moments of self doubt and pressure, especially balancing expectations with staying true to myself. I overcame them by grounding myself in prayer, preparation, and remembering why I started. Once I focused on purpose over pressure, everything aligned.
What motivated you to compete for this pageant?
The desire to represent Nigeria’s culture, tourism, and untold stories on a larger scale. I wanted to be part of a narrative that celebrates our heritage while inspiring positive change.
What does winning this crown mean to you?
It means responsibility, visibility, and the opportunity to shape narratives. As Miss Ideal Nigeria Tourism, this crown represents a commitment to showcasing the richness of Nigeria and Africa beyond stereotypes. Tourism to me is storytelling. It is about culture, heritage, people, landscapes, and the quiet luxury that exists within our everyday experiences. I am passionate about travel because it allows people to experience culture firsthand. When people see the beauty of our cities, our traditions, our art, and our hospitality, perception changes. This crown gives me the platform to highlight those stories, to promote local destinations, and to encourage both Nigerians and the world to experience Africa with fresh eyes.
In pageantry, do you have a mentor? If yes, who and why?
Yes, I have mentors who have guided me both directly and indirectly. Strong women in pageantry and leadership who exemplify grace, discipline, and resilience. Their journeys remind me that excellence is built over time.
What project have you carried out so far or are you still working on something?
I am the founder of The Taiwo Initiative, a project focused on empowering children and teenagers through creativity and environmental awareness. Through art based activities, young people are taught to transform waste materials into meaningful creations, encouraging sustainability, self worth, and responsibility toward their environment. I am also developing a tourism focused creative concept that explores Nigeria and Africa through a lens of culture, luxury, and storytelling, aligned with my role as Miss Ideal Nigeria Tourism. My team and I are bringing this vision to life and I am excited about how it will unfold.
What is your vision for society, and what impact would you like to make?
I envision a society where young people believe in themselves and understand their responsibility to their community. I want to inspire confidence, creativity, and sustainable thinking, especially among the next generation.
If you were not a model, what other career would you have pursued?
I would have pursued a career in law. I am deeply interested in justice, advocacy, and the protection of rights. Law represents structure, discipline, and the power to influence systems, and it aligns with my desire to speak for those who may not always have a voice and to contribute meaningfully to society.
Where do you see yourself in the next five years?
In the next five years, I see myself established across multiple areas of my life. Growing my career in modeling and digital media, expanding my work in business and creative ventures, and continuing to develop initiatives that create long term impact. Beyond titles, I am focused on building a balanced life rooted in purpose, professionalism, and personal growth, where my work, values, and ambitions align.
What message do you have for young women aspiring to become beauty queens?
Know who you are before you step on any stage. Build substance alongside confidence. Beauty may open the door, but character keeps it open. Stay disciplined, stay authentic, and never underestimate the power of your voice.