Former state President Kgalema Motlanthe congratulates Alex’s Boipelo Mabe as the second runner-up of the Miss South Africa Beauty pageant

Former State President, Kgalema Motlanthe congratulated 22-year-old brainy beauty, Boipelo Mabe of Alex for coming in as the second runner-up of the 2017 Miss South Africa Beauty pageant.

The event was held at Sun City on 18 March. The coveted crown was won by 21-year-old Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters from the Western Cape, a BCom graduate; with her provincial peer, 25-year-old Ade van Heerden, a medical doctor coming in as the first runner-up.

Read: Mabe hopes to use her windfall to impact her community

The trio walked away with prizes of cash, hampers, travel opportunities and most importantly, the opportunity to represent their communities and the nation through involvement in worthy causes.

Commending the event organisers at the sideline of his book launch at Pholosho Junior Secondary School, Motlanthe said past impressions of pageants have changed from one of only beauty to that of beauty and brains, which the nation should embrace.

Mabe, a motivational speaker, former news reader, political analyst and full-time masters student in international relations at Wits University, has, in the past, exposed Alex News to her passion for charitable causes. This, often through her engagement with school children who she encourages to devote their time to their education.

Read: Mabe’s charm pays off

Motlanthe urged pageant entrants – particularly those from formerly marginalised areas – to be exemplary role models, particularly on education, and to promote where they come from. Lauding Mabe for her achievement, Motlanthe urged her to use her high-profile position to help lift others. “Education is the only equaliser for a nation transitioning from a divisive and ugly past,” he stressed.

Details: Creative Minds Movement 071 972 9042.

Edited by Beryl Knipe

Send your congratulations to Boipelo and your views about the pageant on WhatsApp 079 439 5345.