Miss Universe Kenya contestant Immaculate Wachera has drawn praise after completing a 4.3-kilometre walk in seven-inch heels to raise awareness and show solidarity with women living with disabilities.
The challenge, which she documented on social media, aimed to highlight the daily struggles faced by many women with disabilities while encouraging conversations about inclusion, accessibility, and equal opportunities.
Wachera said the walk was more than a test of endurance. She described it as a symbolic gesture intended to remind people that many women navigate physical, social and economic barriers every day.
"This walk was not about the heels. It was about standing with women living with disabilities and reminding them that they are seen, valued and deserving of equal opportunities," Wachera said.
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A demanding journey
Walking several kilometres in seven-inch heels is physically demanding, placing significant strain on the feet, ankles and lower back. The challenge required balance, endurance and determination, making Wachera's accomplishment notable.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), approximately 16 per cent of the world's population—around 1.3 billion people—live with a significant disability. Women and girls with disabilities often experience higher levels of discrimination, limited access to healthcare, education and employment compared to their peers.
The United Nations also notes that women with disabilities are disproportionately affected by gender inequality, making advocacy campaigns increasingly important in raising awareness.
Support pours in online.
Many Kenyans applauded Wachera for using her pageant journey to advocate for an important cause.
Sharon Wanjiku commented:
"This is the kind of advocacy we need. Beauty with purpose. Well done, Immaculate."
Brian Mutiso wrote:
"Walking 4.3 kilometres in those heels is not easy. Respect for using your influence to create awareness."
Faith Achieng added:
"Thank you for remembering women living with disabilities. They deserve to be celebrated and supported every day."
"Purpose over perfection. Wishing you all the best in the competition."
Advocating for inclusion
Wachera's initiative comes at a time when conversations around disability rights and accessibility continue to gain momentum globally. Campaigners have consistently called for greater representation of persons with disabilities in education, employment, leadership and public life.
By combining her Miss Universe Kenya platform with a physically demanding challenge, Wachera has contributed to those conversations while encouraging more people to support inclusion and equal opportunities for women living with disabilities.
