Victoria Bagaya has tried her hands on different responsibilities in and outside school. The reigning Miss Interact at the Horizon Campus of St Lawrence Schools, says it has all been a ‘God-did-it’ experience.
From being underestimated in her early high school days to becoming a symbol of confidence and leadership at the Horizon Campus of St Lawrence Schools and Colleges, Victoria Bagaya, Senior Four, the reigning Miss Interact at her school has carved a path of resilience, self-discovery, and impact.
Teens Buzz’s Patrick Ssentongo rounded her up at school for a chat on her journey, ambitions, and the power of believing in yourself.
Congrats on being crowned Miss Interact! What does this title mean to you
Thank you! It is a God-did experience. This title is more than just a crown and a sash for me. It is a platform. It means I have a voice, and I can use it to inspire other students, especially those who feel overlooked or underestimated.
Growing up, I always wanted exposure, to be known—not for the sake of fame, but so that I could make a difference. I used to be under looked in my early school years, mostly because of my size.
But instead of hiding, I decided to build myself up. I got into modeling, pageantry, and leadership, and that is how I gained confidence. Winning Miss Interact proves to me and to others that no matter where you come from, you can do more than people expect of you.
Tell us about the Interact Club at Horizon—what is its purpose, and what kind of projects do you take on?
Interact is all about service and leadership. It brings students together to solve problems within our school and our communities. Sometimes school can feel a bit routine, even boring, so we create activities that keep students engaged while making a difference.
For example, one of our recent projects was raising funds to support the school’s non-teaching staff. These are the people who keep the school running, yet we often do not think about how hard they work.
So, we collected money and gave back as a way of showing appreciation. Interact also organizes entertainment events, talent showcases, and initiatives that give students a chance to express themselves beyond academics.
What inspired you to join Interact, and how has the experience shaped you as a leader?
I joined Interact because I wanted to be part of something bigger than myself. I love being around people, making new friends, and learning from others. Plus, I always wanted to be a leader.
Being part of Interact has taught me how to work with different personalities, how to organise events, and most importantly, how to balance leadership and academics. It has also given me exposure and a sense of responsibility.
What is the most exciting initiative you have worked on so far with the club?
There have been so many, but one of my favorites was the talent exposure initiative. I realised that there are so many students with unique talents—dancers, sportspeople, writers—but they do not get enough recognition.
So, through Interact, we have started working on creating more tournaments and events that showcase these talents. I want every student to feel like they have a space to shine, whether it’s in academics, sports, fashion, or performing arts.
If you had the power to introduce one major change in your school through the Interact Club, what would it be?
I would push for more structured talent development programmes. We need more platforms for students to showcase their skills not just during big events but regularly. I would also introduce leadership training for all students, not just those in clubs. Many students have potential, but they lack the confidence to step up. If we had mentorship programs within the school, more students would be empowered to take on leadership roles.
Beyond school, what are your aspirations? Do you see yourself continuing in leadership roles?
Absolutely! Leadership is part of me now. My dream is to become a Bosslady—to run my own things, make an impact, and be independent. I have a passion for interior design, international relations, and innovation. I love organising spaces, and I also love diplomacy. Maybe one day I will merge both into something unique.
Many teens struggle with self-confidence—what advice would you give to those afraid to take up leadership roles?
First of all, pray and trust yourself. Everything starts in the mind—if you believe you can, you are already halfway there. Also, do not let other people’s opinions define you. I was once underestimated, but here I am. You just have to step out of your comfort zone and take chances. Beauty, confidence, and success all lie in the eyes of the beholder—so start by seeing yourself as capable.
What is one fun fact about you that people do not know?
I love music and dance! People know me for leadership and modeling, but I also enjoy vibing to good music and just letting loose.
You mentioned something called the ‘God-Did Experience’—tell us more about that.
(Laughs…) Yes, I call it that because every first term of school, God gives me a new opportunity. In Form One, I tried out modeling for the first time. In Form Two, I won Miss Horizon and later competed in Miss High School. In Form Three, I got into national debate tournaments and also contested in Miss Mirinda. And now, in Form Four, I am Miss Interact! Every year, something happens that takes me to another level. I believe it is all part of God’s plan for me.
Final thoughts! What message do you have for your fellow students?
Never underestimate yourself. Whether it is leadership, academics, or talent—go for what you believe in. Also, support each other. We rise by lifting others, and the more we empower those around us, the stronger we become as a community. And lastly, dream big.
If someone had told me a few years ago that I would be sitting here as Miss Interact, I would not have believed them. But here we are. Anything is possible!
