A triumph for Ntsiki in Miss South Africa pageant
For Ntsiki Mkhize nothing surpasses the feeling of being on the Miss South Africa stage, which has produced some of South Africa's notable leading women.
The 23-year-old former Wattville resident was crowned second princess at the Miss South Africa pageant in Sun City on Sunday, March 29.
Ntsiki was lost for words to describe the feeling of being part of the pageant.
“It was really amazing and it is a once in a lifetime experience.
“I cannot really describe it, but it’s an honour being on that stage,” she said.
This win means a lot to Ntsiki, because she strongly believes that she gave it her all.
This was her third attempt at the title and the first time she made it to the final.
“I am happy with my win and I am at peace with knowing that what happened that night was meant to happen.
“Being in the top three is great, because it is a validation and tells me that the judges have seen me.
“I also loved hearing the crowd cheering for me and that, for me, is a triumph.”
Ntsiki said that when she previously got to the semi-finals she knew she could improve on certain aspects of her appearance – but this time she is satisfied she did her best.
”I have been working towards this moment for three years and it is huge for me and my journey,” she added..
“I was originally not in the top 12, but I was recalled and asked to join them – and for me that is an achievement.”
She will not enter the competition again, but has taken to heart the important lessons she has learnt.
“I have done what I came to do and I poured my heart out.
“I am grasping the opportunity with both hands and I will be working on the foundations in which I am currently involved – which are Song (Shaping Our Next Generation) and Cream (Creating Revolutionary Entrepreneurs and Moguls).
“We currently work with one school on empowering young people to get involved in business and I would like to work with more schools in future,” she said.
During the pageant each contestant was provided with a mentor, and Ntsiki’s mentor is former Miss South Africa Peggy-Sue Khumalo.
“The mentors helped us with putting our best foot forward and preparing for the experience,” Ntsiki explained.
She hopes to continue her mentorship with Khumalo and, hopefully, to get an insight into life and business.
For now, Ntsiki will continue working as a partnership and events manager at Small Business Connect.
Liesl Laurie, from Eldorado Park, was crowned Miss South Africa 2015 and Refilwe Mthimunye, from Bronkhorspruit, was crowned first princess.
