00:00People dance with books at the opening of the 18th 72 Hours of the Book Festival,
00:05a literary event that has become a symbol of conagry.
00:10This cultural energy earned the city UNESCO's World Book Capital title in 2017
00:15and a place in its cultural city's network in 2025, with Miss Literature now a key highlight.
00:24This is not a beauty contest based on physical appearance.
00:28The contestants all have unique looks, different shapes, different colours,
00:31because we judge intellects, not what we see.
00:35This year, Aziyatu Komono was crowned Miss Literature.
00:41I really love literature. I love reading.
00:43When I heard about Miss Literature, I thought, why not?
00:46Why not try my luck and experience this adventure with others who share the same passion?
00:52Two runner-ups were also named.
00:54Aziyatu Bari, a communications student, took first runner-up.
01:01Literature has been part of my life since childhood.
01:04I grew up with books, not just in French, but in Arabic and Pula.
01:08In my family, everything is taught through literature, through proverbs, stories.
01:12It's the driving force of my personal growth.
01:14It defines who I am.
01:28The second runner-up is the youngest contestant, Mariamma Kamara, a history student.
01:38It was an incredible experience for me.
01:40I learned so much and met people who brought me a lot.
01:44It's been entirely positive.
01:45I encourage other young people like me to take part in this kind of competition.
01:52Spectators like Therese Kapo, herself a former contestant,
01:55say the competition goes far beyond appearances.
02:00Many people focus on looks, but it's just as important to highlight what these young women have inside,
02:06their potential, their talent, and above all, their passion.
02:09This year's edition also marked a first.
02:12For the 18th time, the 72 Hours of the Book Festival expanded beyond the capital,
02:16with events held in the city of Foukiara.
02:19For the 18th time, the 72 Hours of the Book Festival expanded beyond the capital,
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