In a recent casting call, Mrs South Africa received over 300 emails from hopefuls vying for a spot in the esteemed pageant. Among them was a talented and passionate individual from Fourways, who has made it to the top 30 of the competition.
Meet Mandisa Phuncu, a 35-year-old mom of two boys and a wife of eight years, who has been making waves with her inspiring story and unwavering confidence.
Read more: Ronette Marx marks 20 years in the modelling industry
As one of the three contestants from Fourways to make it to the top 30, Phuncu is proud to represent her community alongside her fellow contestants. As the founder of the African-inspired brand, Amari Woman, she is dedicated to empowering women through fashion and promoting self-discovery.
Her journey began when she discovered her creative side through sewing and photography, which led her to create stunning pieces that speak to her creativity.
When asked what inspired her to enter the Mrs South Africa pageant Phuncu said, “Mrs South Africa is such a phenomenal and powerful platform for brand visibility, growth, and self-discovery. I believe in Amari Woman and all it stands for, beyond the phenomenal clothing we produce. Empowerment and making women feel like the best versions of themselves is at the heart of who I am.”
Also read: Being informed is important to aspirant model
Throughout her journey in the competition, Phuncu has faced challenges but has also found moments of growth and self-discovery. “Mrs South Africa is a journey worth taking, confidently so; I found layers of myself I never quite knew existed as they presented themselves. My confidence spiked in such a major way. I became so comfortable in my skin because I got to engage with so many women. – The love and sisterhood they embrace has been so humbling.”
When asked how she balances her family life, work, and personal goals while preparing for the pageant, Phuncu revealed that it wasn’t easy, especially after her home assistant fell ill with cancer. However, she credits her husband and parents for helping her find balance and support.
Outside of the pageant, Phuncu loves creating beautiful moments through photography and sewing stunning pieces that speak to her creativity. She stays motivated by staying true to herself, and not comparing herself to others.
As a passionate advocate for female empowerment and cultural celebration, Puncu aims to inspire people worldwide through her brand’s message of strength, authenticity, and pride.
If she wins the title of Mrs South Africa, she plans to make a positive impact on her community by advocating for education, as well as being comfortable in one’s creativity.
For her, Mrs South Africa is more than just a beauty pageant, it’s an opportunity for personal growth and self-discovery. “It’s an MBA of Life; it facilitates profound self-discovery and personal growth, especially for those of us who juggle roles as mothers, wives, and professionals,” she said.
Related article: Being informed is important to aspirant model
