The momentous night Carla Young has been working towards all year has finally come.
The 2024 Mrs South Africa Top 30 finalists have been chosen, with Young receiving her sash under the bright lights of the Theatre of Marcellus at Emperors Palace on July 5.
Raised in Nigel, Young has spent the past 25 years in Dalpark, where she pursued her career as a chemical trial administrator.
She enjoys gardening, and hiking and is a member of the APCOC cancer organisation where she passionately helps with charitable work.
“Throw me in the water and see if I can swim. The Big Kahuna; I am 54 years old with grown children, a gorgeous granddaughter, and a fulfilling marriage.
“I want to inspire women in their 50s to embrace this new chapter in their lives with grace, elegance, courage and curiosity.
“I believe our fifties can be a time of tremendous growth, exploration and fulfilment and I am excited to share my journey with others and learn from theirs,” she explains.
Mrs South Africa is an empowerment programme to transform married women aged 25 to 55 into powerful leaders and forces for positive change. The pageant creates a supportive environment wherein contestants work together, learn from one another, find support, and grow their personal and professional networks.
Speaking about her experience as part of the Mrs South Africa sisterhood, she says, “Being part of this sisterhood has transformed my life.
“They offered me a space to share my experiences, receive guidance and connect with like-minded women. The sisterhood has empowered me to embrace my strengths and weaknesses and to use my voice to make a positive impact. I am forever grateful for their love and support,” says Young.
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Joani Jacobs, CEO of Mrs South Africa, notes the programme received a record number of applicants in 2024, making the competition fiercer than ever.
“The judges faced a difficult task in selecting the winners from such a strong group of contestants, and this year’s Top 30 represents some of South Africa’s most incredible, inspirational women.
“We are proud to walk this journey beside them as they pushed themselves to break through their limiting beliefs, and discover what they are capable of,” she says.
“They took to each challenge laid before them with ease and embodied the spirit of strength, positivity, and grace that define Mrs South Africa.
“We look forward to watching them take the final steps in their self-development journey, and making their mark as formidable female leaders and social advocates.”
