by  Chris Twum
20 delegates were selected to enter into the 2012 edition of the Miss Malaika beauty reality series, however, come Friday August 17, that number will be reduced by half in the first and final eviction show for the season.

Competing for the top spots are: Ama Ampofo, Rashida Ibrahim, Regina Anne V-Helvert, Anita Bukky Olu, Sonia Leeyen, Eunice Anani and Emmanuella Enyonam Dotse.

The rest are Bernice Quaye, Frances Ackles, Edlyn Nuno, Aisha Walon, Adwoa Nyarko Kagya, Efua Orleans-Lindsay, Jennifer Okailey, Rosemary Anima Awusu, Sadia Sanusi, UduakAbasi Onwioduokit, Bridget Sharon Cofie, Sheila Okyere and Faith Ayeh.

The mini-final, as it is called, is scheduled to come off at the GH-One studio in Accra. The delegates have been prepping for this showdown through the 'Malaika Finishing School'.

The school aims among other things to impart valuable knowledge to the delegates so that even those who do not make it into the finals exit the competition better than when they entered.

The 20 delegates took part in several educational on public speaking that are most essential because the Malaika Queen becomes an instant public figure who could be called upon to give an address at any time.

They also had personal grooming lessons on social etiquette by Kay Bentsi-Enchill while Abrantie and Praba cosmetics took the ladies through sessions on hair and make-up applications among others.

The competition is expected to be most exciting and challenging for the delegates who have to impress the general public and the Judges on both beauty of face and figure as well as on their intellectual abilities through specific presentations on the day.