Mary Yongai breaks 19-year-old world record in 'makeup-a-thon'

Mary Yongai, a 26-year-old makeup artist from Sierra Leone, has broken a 19-year-old Guinness World Record for the most cosmetic makeovers completed in 24 hours by a single artist.

According to a GWR report, Yongai completed 111 makeovers in one day, surpassing her goal of 100 and also beating the previous record of 96, which was initially set by Indonesia’s Martha Tilaar, back in 2005.

To meet the Guinness World Records criteria, each makeover had to include concealer, foundation, blush or bronzer, at least two shades of eye shadow, eyeliner, mascara, lipstick or lip gloss, lip liner, and powder in their attempt to make history.

The event, which took place in Freetown, Sierra Leone’s capital, drew a large crowd, with even local celebrities and government ministers passing through to witness Yongai’s exploits.

The lots gathered to cheer her on, knowing she had what it takes to put their nation on the map.

The physical demands of the challenge looked tough, yet Yongai only took a 20-minute break over the 24-hour period, and did not eat nor use the bathroom. Rather, she relied on soft drinks , and in her words, “the grace of God” to sustain her.

She also avoided any stimulants, such as caffeine or nicotine, earnestly aiming to meet her goal without any hindrances.

The scene following the final makeover was one of celebration. “The crowd was too much. Even getting me out of the location was difficult,” Yongai recalled. “People were celebrating me, and I felt so honored. On our way out, the crowd was overwhelming, and I passed out. But once I reached the hotel, I felt blessed to have attempted this record-breaking challenge.”

This is only the second Guinness World Record set in Sierra Leone, following the largest Sampa dance held at the National Stadium in Freetown in 2012.

Yongai’s record-breaking attempt was inspired by Nigerian chef Hilda Baci, who recently set a record for the longest cooking marathon. Yongai spent weeks practicing on her sisters and friends, eventually completing a trial run of 48 makeovers in eight hours. “This was a good start,” she said. “It gave me the confidence to know I could break the record.”

Although the achievement was personal, Yongai also saw it as a way to inspire others. “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,” she said.

Mary Yongai’s accomplishment has now sparked celebrations all over in Sierra Leone, where she is expected to be honored for putting both her name and her country on the world map.