Mhluzi teacher wants to make a difference by entering Mrs Grand South Africa
Xolile Cele said she wants to raise awareness on GBV and the impacts it has in society. She believes the pageant is the perfect platform from which to share her powerful message.
Passionate about education and empowering women, a local teacher has entered Mrs Grand South Africa.
Xolile Cele is a finalist representing Mpumalanga.
She is a departmental head of language at Tshwenyane Secondary School in Mhluzi, Middelburg.
“I entered the pageant because I felt it is good platform I can utilise to spread awareness on gender-based violence and its impacts, especially on the youth. Mrs Grand South Africa aims to afford married, divorced and widowed women an opportunity to rediscover their personality and their strengths, to gain confidence and raise their self-esteem. Its mission is to prove to people that it is not impossible to be a homemaker and still lead a life of purpose.”
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As the finalist, Cele is mandated to improve people’s lives and raise awareness about GBV matters. While she works with teenagers, she is supposed to nurture their talents and assist in their daily challenges.
“As a high school teacher, I observed the impact on teenagers who gave feedback on getting involved with older men seeking love they do not get at home.
“This results in teenage pregnancy and HIV/Aids rates being increased. GBV has raised the bar of bullying, disrespect and drugs and substance abuse by young people, as they seek comfort in the wrong things. Those in abusive relationships must seek help and speak up about their abuse and join forces with other people in order to heal. They must report it to their nearest police stations before they lose their lives.”
Cele said society perceive mature women as people who are not supposed to enter pageantry.
“As a torch bearer I aim to pave the way. No matter your age, you can still fulfil your passion. My motto is ‘Opportunities delayed are not opportunities denied.’ I firmly believe that your past doesn’t define you, but what you are doing to change the future does.”
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Cele is involved in various projects such as providing essential supplies to underprivileged communities and running campaigns on education and health awareness, assisting local charities.
“I declare that beauty pageants are not limited to physical appearances, glitz and glam, but instead are synonymous with resilience, hard work, compassion and determination to create a better world. I encourage women to come out of their comfort zones and their homes and collaborate with like-minded women to change their community through community services by donating to schools and shelters around them,” said Cele.
