Shelby Moura from Edenvale has been chosen as a Mzantzi Africa Role Model 2018 finalist.
The former Miss Edenvale qualified automatically as a finalist for the pageant as she is currently Miss Gauteng 2016/17.
The 21-year-old will represent Gauteng and Edenvale at this year’s Mzansi Africa Role Model national finals in Cape Town, with contestants who coming from all over South Africa.
“The national pageant theme is ‘African kaleidoscope’ and it celebrates the diversity of cultures in our country,” Shelby said.
But more importantly for Shelby, the pageant is a philanthropic event which aims to make a positive difference in the community.
“This pageant is a vehicle from which to make a difference in the lives of those who are destitute in the community.
“The event is unlike most pageants as it does not have specific height and weight specifications,” she added. “We do not believe that making a difference in your community is dependent on the size of your body.”
Shelby aims to use her participation in the event to serve as a role model for the youth, and is looking forward to working with the pageant’s charity beneficiary, the Role Models Foundation.
“I have always had a passion for helping those who are less fortunate than I am,” she said. “The Role Models Foundation has three projects that are important to me.”
One of these is the Imfundo Educare and Skills Development project, which sets up and supports early childhood development facilities in disadvantaged communities.
“The foundation has also initiated and supports three Imfundo Educare facilities, namely Malaba Extension Six in Port Elizabeth, Diepsloot in Gauteng and another one in Bloemfontein,” said Shelby.
Another Role Models Foundation initiative, the Asanté-Neo-Life project, is about protecting and supporting abused women and children.
“We collect toiletries to make up new mother goodie bags and refresher packs for victims of abuse,” Shelby said.
The third project she will be involved with is the Tamakhulu project, which is dedicated to restoring dignity to senior citizens.
“Food parcels and blankets are donated to senior citizens to bring some relief,” she said.
Shelby plans to support a number of other Role Models Foundation projects if she wins the competition.
“I am collecting stationery and old clothing for charity, but any form of donation will be appreciated.”
She will be hosting a fundraising event at Rush Greenstone on December 1 from 8pm to 10pm, and appeals to the community to rally behind her.
Entrance will cost R150 excluding socks, and proceeds will go to the Imfundo Educare and Skills Development project.
The Mzantzi Africa Role Model 2018 finale will take place on December 16.
The days leading up to the finale will feature a tour of Robben Island, a trip up Table Mountain, a photo shoot in Camps Bay, a ‘recyclable’ fashion show and a talent show.
