Miss Teen World to inspire youngsters
At the age of five, Avonique competed in her first pageant.
For Hoërskool Oosterlig’s Avonique van Rooyen (15) it was the most amazing feeling in the world to walk away with the Miss Teen World 2023 title.
The Sunward Park resident was crowned at Seven Seas Sealight Elite Hotel in Kusadasi, Türkiye, on May 12.
She first walked away with the Miss Photomodel of the Globe title, followed by winning the Grand Prix title (overall winner with the highest score).
Avonique highlighted it was the first time that this title was won by a South African.
This is also the first time that a South African has won the Miss World title twice. Avonique won the Little Miss title in 2019, as well as Talent of the World and Best of the Best.
“After I won Little Miss World in 2019, I was invited back to Turkey to compete, but because of Covid-19 and the recent war, it was only possible for me to return to Turkey this year. I remember being so surprised about winning, especially when I was announced as the overall Grand Prix winner.
“It took some time to soak it all in, but once they placed the crown on my head it felt more real. The competition was challenging, competitive and stressful but also exciting and a lot of fun.
“The other contestants were beautiful and very talented. They came from countries like India, Israel, Montenegro, Malta, Armenia, and Romania,” she said.
The beauty queen also entered the pageant because it is more than just a beauty competition.
“I see this as a platform and opportunity to make a difference in my community,” she added.
Avonique is determined to use this title to inspire other young girls.
“If I can do it, they can too. I want to be a role model to the younger generation. I also want to use this platform to continue with my charity work.
“Pageants are all about discipline and performing under pressure. It taught me the value of a positive attitude, getting along with fellow contestants and accepting the results graciously.”
Avonique would like to compete in Türkiye again and maybe win the Miss Junior World title.
She expressed her gratitude to Ashot Khachatryan from WLBF for this amazing competition and also Carolyn Baldwin Botha from Pageants SA.
“A huge thank you to everyone who supported me through this journey.”
Also Read: Avonique skitter in Turkye met nog ‘n kroon
Also Read: Boksburg swimming coach takes top award
