Minenhle takes top sport in national pageant
The eleven-year-old SA pageant finalist attributes her success to her supportive family.
ELEVEN-year-old Minenhle Thabede was recently crowned Little Miss Township South Africa first runner-up 2024 and won the Miss Entrepreneurship Award 2023.
The young beauty from Seaview, who was representing KwaZulu-Natal after she won Face of Little Miss Township SA Teen earlier this year, was crowned at The State Theatre in Pretoria at the beginning of the month.
Minenhle started modelling at the age of four and loves being in front of people. The bubbly girl said that prior to being crowned Face of Little Miss Township SA Teen, she had never won a pageant before.
“I was nervous and excited,” said Minenhle with a smile.
She attributed her victory to her mother who is forever there for her, supporting her every move.
“I also have a very supportive father and family. My mother and my family coached me on how to walk the runway, saying, ‘You must come out of the box; it is your time to shine’.
Also read: Appeal for safety measures on Limpus Road
For the Grade Six learner at Seaview Primary School, taking part in the pageant was more to enjoy the moment.
“I can be shy sometimes, but I learnt to walk and speak with confidence and do my Zulu traditional dance in front of a big crowd.”
She thanked those who supported her from her school and community and her family and friends.
Besides modelling, Minenhle enjoys dancing. She also plays guitar. She has taken a new liking to gymnastics which she does at home. She also has a certificate in ballet which she has been doing at the Playhouse.
“I also love dancing, especially African dance. I am also a swimmer, and I do art and drama and love to sing,” she told Queensburgh News.
The young go-getter said she would love to pursue a career in nursing once she grows up.
“I love helping people, and I would love to help people with disabilities,” said the compassionate Minenhle.
Seaview Primary School principal Pearly Pillay said she was proud of Minenhle who emerged as the First Princess in the ‘Little Miss Township South Africa Teen’ contest.
“She is an up-and-coming model, and her modelling and pageant career is off to a brilliant start. Minenhle is talented in the field of Arts and Culture and embraces the holistic programme offered at Sea View Primary.
“She is commended on persevering with her academic programmes despite her busy schedule,” said Pillay.
