What it takes to own your throne
She advised the finalists to be patient and kind to themselves.
Raised by her parents, Daphney and Machaka Machaba, reigning Miss Thembisa Mahlako Machaba grew up aspiring to be a pageant queen even though she was shy.
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She was born at Hospital View Private Hospital and raised in Isiphetweni Section.
She said her journey to becoming Miss Thembisa wasn’t easy, as she struggled to balance her social life, the pageant and schoolwork; however, her family has been her biggest support structure.
“I’m truly grateful because, without them, I wouldn’t have won. I completed my charity work in time because of their support and understanding.”
The 21-year-old said her parents are her role models because they are the embodiment of hard work, resilience, patience and courage.
“I love how strong they are individually and as a unit. They taught me love and the importance of being kind to others.”
The Bachelor of Law student at Unisa said the support of those in her corner gave her the courage to continue being resilient throughout the competition.
“It’s important to have a positive support structure because they help you deal with anxiety and stress.”
She said Miss Thembisa is a platform that guides young girls to become catalysts of change in their community, and throughout the journey, one learns they have to empower themselves first to empower others.
Mahlako encouraged young girls to be part of organisations like Miss Thembisa to become role models in their communities and women of substance.
She advised the finalists to be patient and kind to themselves.
“Do not be afraid to be courageous and do not be afraid to be challenged. Challenges are meant to build and not destroy us. I want young women to know that success is earned through hard work and resilience.
“I want to continue with my project as the reigning queen and continue being an active member through charity projects even after my reign has ended.”
She stated it was her goal to enter other pageants in South Africa.
“I want people to remember my charity work that has touched the lives of others and had a positive impact in the community of Thembisa. I need people to look at Mahlako as a young woman from Thembisa who is passionate about giving back to her community. I want to be remembered as a goal-driven young woman and hard worker,” she said.
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