Okuhle, a Grade 7 pupil at Busybee Primary School, recounts her journey in the pageant industry and explains how it has shaped and motivated her to achieve greatness.
- What inspired you to enter the Little Miss South Africa pageant and how did you prepare for the competition?
I was inspired to enter Little Miss South Africa through the enthusiasm I have for pageantry. I am in search of a platform where dreams are nurtured, talents are recognised, and young girls are empowered. It has always been my desire to possess a title (with the name of my country) at a young age. This boosts my motivation to one day enter the Miss South Africa pageant. I prepared for this competition by taking extra modelling lessons to perfect my art and by educating myself more about the industry and the pageant itself. I believe that modern pageantry isn’t only about walking but also about being relevant with your stage presence, appearance, and having the right mind-set. Taking care of my body by eating healthy and exercising to keep fit to ensure the correct body posture was all part of my prep. - What was the most challenging part of the pageant, and how did you overcome this challenge?
The most challenging part was the nerves; it’s an undeniable truth that in a competition you will always never feel ready enough. When the moment of performance arrives, many thoughts cross your mind: Are you presenting to the judges what they are looking for? Are you going to make it?
This was my most desired title and I had to overcome my fear of failure by being optimistic, believing in myself, and knowing that there is no going back; I can only give my best, and the rest is up to the judges.
My coach always says you only fail if you fail to try. All these positive words started flooding my mind, and I took charge of the moment and let my light shine at the given moment. That’s how I conquered the fears racing through my mind. - Can you tell us a little about yourself, your family, and what makes you unique?
I’m a 12-year-old girl hailing from Madadeni Sec. 7, but currently staying in Lennoxton. I’m from a small family: my grandmother, my mom, my aunt, my elder sister, and me. My family is such a very supportive structure, which is the reason I am an eagle today. All my cousins, my aunt, my granny and my mom have been a blessing to me.
What makes me unique is my humbleness; I’m mostly known for being down-to-earth yet so talented. I was raised with great morals and ethics. I believe that talent can open a door but your character will keep you in the room. I’m a selfless person – a viber, and a kind little human. I believe that my presence should influence those around me positively because I am a role model for many. - Who has been your biggest role model, and how have they influenced your journey?
My biggest role model has been the icon, former Miss Universe, Zozibini Tunzi. From the day I knew about her, my desire for bigger titles in pageantry was piqued.
Studying her life as a well-spoken person across the world has prompted me to develop dreams and goals for my personal life. I want to be like her and more. To be an embodiment of greatness and a world icon with everything I touch… I want to leave a legacy in the hearts of many. As a person who comes from a ‘hood’, I want to inspire young girls to believe in themselves regardless of where they come from. I’m living evidence that whatever you desire, you can always achieve. I have managed to inspire many pageant girls in Newcastle because of my unwavering passion and focus over the last four years. - What was your favourite moment during the competition, and why does it stand out?
I still can’t believe that after entering numerous pageants, I have never lost even one (competition); this has made me believe that I am not just talented but that am called to this!
I am not just a model but a dancer too, having achieved numerous awards. I am qualified in both pageantry and dance to represent South Africa on international stages.
I am a student at the Strawberry Dance Academy and coached by Aunt Jaunita. I’m so humbled by the way she has transformed my life. Aunt Jaunita has helped me perfect my art and encouraged me to be a dance champion. I have taken part in national competitions including Talent Africa and managed to achieve excellent results. It’s endless; a blessing I can’t even count.
My favourite moment in a competition is when I have to interact with the judges on stage with questions, interviews or introductions. I also love walking on the ramp expressing myself with every personality and igniting the room the way I charge the atmosphere … this helps to make me memorable; a little girl who loves the vibe and positive energy around her. - What does winning Little Miss South Africa mean to you?
Today’s pageantry isn’t about body, looks, or any appearance as much as all that is needed. I believe that the focus has shifted to beauty with brains; after all, pageantry is about birthing leaders since leadership is the capacity to translate a vision into a reality. After winning, you should be able to wear that crown with responsibility. I believe that this isn’t just a rhinestone crown but comes with a responsibility to voice my actions with transformation programmes and implement positive change to those around me; being a winner is literally being an ambassador and a brand representative of LMSA.
I’m interested in embodying a mindful movement, advocating against gender-based violence, inequality, bullying, and body shaming. To foster positive thoughts and the right treatment for those disadvantaged, with disabilities, and care for senior citizens. - Apart from pageantry, what are your other passions or hobbies?
Apart from pageantry, I do ballet, modern dancing and acrobatics. I’m also into contemporary dance, worship dance, and open dance. I’ve taken part in nationals and regionals; I also dance at events like weddings. I love the entertainment industry. I am also a poet, and I’m into public speaking. I also enjoy swimming, reading and fashion modelling. I am such a busy bee (like my school) … very energetic and vibrant. I love trying out new things, and I’m very social and like adventure. I travel a lot. - What are your dreams and goals for the future, and how do you see this title helping you achieve them?
My future goals are to be crowned Miss South Africa, Miss Supranational, Miss Universe, the World’s Dance Champion, Talent Supreme, a presenter, an influencer, an author, a media personality, and a narrator. This serves as evidence that your limitation is only your imagination. If I can dream and achieve, then everything I put my mind to will eventually come to pass. This current title serves as a platform that will unlock many doors, opportunities, and room for growth. It’s also set me in the light of being recognised and afforded a chance to prove myself with efforts and desire for the high standard of life I want to live. I’m attracted to excellence. - What causes or issues are close to your heart, and how do you plan to use your platform to make a difference?
After learning about authenticity, self-love, and self-acceptance, I want to initiate programmes that touch on these issues and how to treat others right.
Suicidal thoughts can be overcome by having the right associates who are selfless and kind towards others. The younger generation suffers many issues, including bullying, body shaming, and peer pressure. I want to implement sports that will allow everyone to find their corner to shine while encouraging one another to be the best version of themselves. I will come up with strategies, with the help of my coach and family, to make it a reality from small circles of friends to the community. I’ve also started sharing my talent with special needs schools and autistic kids. The current Miss South Africa, Mia, is the embodiment of the inclusive of the exclusive. The more I engage myself with such children, the more they will also see themselves as special and deserving like everyone else. My 2025 schedule includes involving myself in transformational activities. - What message would you like to share with other young girls who look up to you as a role model?
Life has everything you need and being disciplined is the key. You can never preserve greatness if you are not self-disciplined. Be respectful and take both advice and constructive criticism from elders. Whenever there’s something to brag about in your life, change that attitude to be useful and helpful. Life will always have age-appropriate challenges; that’s a sign of living. Make sure you get every help and courage you need, be self-motivated, be dedicated to your dreams and goals, and study hard. Education is the key to success; remember, the leaders of tomorrow are in the classroom today. Lastly, do not be hard on yourself; you will gradually learn everything at your own pace – so never compare yourself with anyone. You have a race to run, and there’s God’s grace for you to achieve everything you want. You are all special and very important.
The news provided to you in this link has been investigated and compiled by the editorial staff of the Newcastle Advertiser, a sold newspaper distributed in the Newcastle area. Please follow us on Youtube and feel free to like, comment, and subscribe. For more local news, visit our webpage, follow us on Facebook and Twitter, and request an add on our WhatsApp (082 874 5550).
Related Articles
