Edenglen learner makes it to pageant finals
“I want to spread the message that as women it is all right to take the first step and not to wait for other people.”
Edenglen High School learner Saiyuri Chetty has been announced as a finalist for the Miss Teen Social Entrepreneur South Africa initiative.
Sairyuri is one of 20 girls who has been selected as finalists for the initiative which focuses on empowering young women rather than physical beauty.
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The 18-year-old said the initiative encourages girls to make a difference to their community.
“I never thought that I would make it to the finals,” said Saiyuri.
“Being selected has given me the confidence to try to change the world and make a difference to others,” said Saiyuri.
Throughout the pageant, the competitors have raised fund for Stop Woman and Child Abuse (SWACA).
Saiyuri said she and other girls had to approach businesses an to convince them to get behind the initiative and purchase SWACA fundraising bracelets.
“At first I was nervous to approach companies but as I went forward I got more confidence and learnt from my mistakes.”
She said her journey in the imitative has taught her to have more faith in herself and her abilities.
Saiyuri said winning the pageant would assist her to empower other young women.
“I want to spread the message that as women it is all right to take the first step and not to wait for other people.”
However, even if she does not win Saiyuri hope to continue empowering others.
She plans to start her own initiative where aspiring artists can learn skills and learn techniques from established artists.
Saiyuri said through the initiative she hopes to promote jobs and teach a sustainable skill.
“Through art people can share their emotions and themselves with others.”
The winner of the initiative will be announced on October 7.
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