Mary Yongai, a master makeup artist from Sierra Leone, has made global headlines by breaking a 19-year-old Guinness World Record. She achieved this historic feat by completing 111 makeovers in just 24 hours. Her determination and incredible talent not only set a new benchmark for the beauty industry but also placed Sierra Leone on the global map.
111 Makeovers in 24 Hours: A Record-Breaking Achievement
Yongai’s impressive accomplishment took place in Freetown, the capital of Sierra Leone. She surpassed her original goal of 100 makeovers and obliterated the previous record of 96, set by Indonesian makeup artist Martha Tilaar in 2005. Each makeover had to meet strict Guinness World Records (GWR) criteria, including the application of concealer, foundation, blush or bronzer, at least two shades of eye shadow, eyeliner, mascara, lipstick or lip gloss, lip liner, and powder.
In her words, “Achieving this record is a dream come true. As a young girl trying to achieve what people think is impossible, I’m super proud of myself.” With each brushstroke, Yongai not only fulfilled her personal goal but inspired countless others across Africa.
Sierra Leone Cheers as Yongai Puts the Nation on the World Map
The event drew large crowds, including local celebrities and government officials, all eager to witness history in the making. Sierra Leoneans gathered in huge numbers to cheer on their national hero, fully aware of how monumental her achievement would be for the country.
“The crowd was too much. Even getting me out of the location was difficult,” Yongai recalled. After completing the final makeover, the scene was filled with excitement and celebration. Her efforts garnered attention across the country, as this is only the second Guinness World Record set in Sierra Leone, following a 2012 record for the largest Sampa dance.
Pushing Through Exhaustion with Grace and Determination
Completing 111 makeovers in 24 hours wasn’t an easy task. Yongai’s endurance was tested as she powered through the challenge, taking only a single 20-minute break. She neither ate nor used the bathroom during the marathon. Remarkably, she didn’t rely on caffeine or nicotine, instead drawing strength from soft drinks and, as she puts it, “the grace of God.”
Despite the grueling nature of the task, her focus remained unshaken. “The physical demands were tough, but I knew I had to push through,” she explained. Her dedication to breaking the record was clear, as she worked tirelessly to complete each makeover to perfection.
Inspired by Fellow Record-Breakers: How Hilda Baci Motivated Yongai
Mary Yongai’s journey to break the record was largely inspired by Nigerian chef Hilda Baci, who recently set a Guinness World Record for the longest cooking marathon. Baci’s success gave Yongai the confidence she needed to embark on her own record-breaking attempt. She spent weeks practicing on her sisters and friends, and even completed a trial run of 48 makeovers in eight hours, which fueled her belief that she could achieve her goal.
“This was a good start,” she shared. “It gave me the confidence to know I could break the record.” Her preparation and determination paid off in the most spectacular way, inspiring young people across Sierra Leone and beyond.
A Milestone for Sierra Leone and a Beacon of Hope for Africa
Mary Yongai’s success has sparked celebrations throughout Sierra Leone. Her achievement has earned her recognition from across the nation, with many seeing her accomplishment as a source of national pride. Yongai’s record-breaking moment is more than a personal triumph—it’s a victory for Sierra Leone, a country that continues to shine on the global stage through its talented and determined individuals.
Her work is a beacon of hope for aspiring makeup artists, especially young girls across Africa, proving that no dream is too big. “As a young girl trying to achieve what people think is impossible, I’m super proud of myself,” she said, reflecting on the significance of her success.
This historic moment is expected to lead to honors and recognition for Yongai, who has now firmly established herself as one of Sierra Leone’s most inspiring figures. Her story will continue to encourage many as she takes her place among the world’s top achievers.
