A TAUNTON mum has won a national beauty competition.

Sarah Kana-ah won the title of Miss Atlantic United Kingdom last month, and was crowned the new Ms Atlantic 2021/22.

The pageant started in February 2019, and aims to ‘inspire, empower and encourage’ participants to thrive in their communities.

Due to the pandemic, the ceremony was held virtually but it still raised £12,952.77 for local and national charities - £9232.64 went to the chosen charity MIND. 

Ms Kana-ah said she was ‘over the moon’ to have won the title.

“To be a part of a system which has raised an incredible amount of money for MIND - a charity close to my own heart is incredible,” she said.

“I feel honoured to represent this system and blessed to have the opportunity to share my story and help empower other survivors of abuse and mental health sufferers with my national title. As a national title holder, my goal is to be a symbol of strength to others.”

The finalists had to complete each round by submitting video footage which was scrutinised by five judges.

Ms Kana-ah has been competing since 2016.

“For many years I didn’t think I was good enough and never would have thought of competing in a pageant - let alone winning a national title and now being a representative for my country,” she added.

“I really hope this will help other survivors know they can re-build themselves and go after their dreams.

“I want to help others understand that their illness or their past doesn’t define them, but their strength and their courage does.”