Eclipse Unplugged and Shotyra’s Collection recently hosted the Mr and Mrs Simplicity pageant at Corner Stone Church in Klopperpark, crowning new ambassadors of change for the community.
The event, aimed at fostering youth leadership, serves as a platform to engage young people in meaningful activities, steering them away from crime, drugs, and alcohol.
Organised by Eclipse Unplugged, a nonprofit that uses dance as a tool to inspire the youth, the pageant expanded its reach beyond Klopperpark, welcoming contestants from surrounding areas.
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Ntando Luplalule, the founder of Eclipse Unplugged, explained the pageant’s evolution.
“It started as Mr and Mrs Klopperpark but has since grown to include participants from neighboring communities.
“Not everyone is drawn to dance, so we introduced pageantry as another creative outlet to keep the youth off the streets,” he said.
Luplalule highlighted the growth within the organisation, noting that three former students now lead dance classes.
“We’ve also seen more young men participating in modeling, which reflects their willingness to step into new spaces and become agents of change in our community,” he added.
The event also incorporated a charitable element. Attendees were encouraged to donate sanitary towels, socks, or toiletries for Klopperpark Primary School students.
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Proceeds from ticket sales were used to purchase additional supplies.
“We aim to provide every Grade Six and Seven student with essentials. Community support is crucial, and we urge more donations to reach this goal,” Luplalule said.
Parents attended in large numbers to support their children, creating a heartwarming atmosphere.
Contestants received individual awards, with Shotyra’s Collection sponsoring outfits for the day.
Luplalule praised the potential of Klopperpark’s youth, emphasising the need for nurturing their talents.
He also expressed gratitude to Corner Stone Church for providing a venue and Bedfordview SAPS for their support.
To support the initiative, donations of sanitary supplies can be made by contacting Eclipse Unplugged at 066 230 0977 or Sergeant Modiga from Bedfordview SAPS at 082 840 6386.
