Jasmine Petersen from Toekomsrus is the new Miss Teen Gauteng.
The 19-year-old finished at the top in the finals at Emperors Palace in Kempton Park on Sunday, 9 May.
She now hopes to be a beacon of hope and an inspiration to many.
The former Randfontein Secondary School (RSS) learner said she followed her dream – and others can too if they simply believe.
“When my name was announced I was lost for words. I am extremely happy, proud and grateful, and have been overwhelmed by the many congratulatory messages, many from people I don’t even know, but I am glad that I was the chosen one,” Jasmine said.
Having started her journey in beauty pageantry in 2013 at the age of 11, Jasmine has thanked all those who have supported her to reach stardom.
“I’d like to thank everyone who supported me and voted for me. A special thanks to Pammela and Quinton Thyssen for always standing by my side, and to the community of Toekomsrus and Eldorado Park for the endless support.
“I thank Valerie Begbie for her teaching, dedication and hard work, and also to my dressmaker Johanna Martin, for helping me to be a force to be reckoned with as competition was fierce.”
In the near future, Jasmine said she’d like to give back to the community by opening a centre where she wishes to reach out to young women and ultimately bring about change.
“I want to see my peers living life to the fullest. As soon as they realise what they’re capable of and follow their hearts they can achieve anything. That will be my way of giving back,” Jasmine added.
