Bridgette’s Miss SA-title dream
Tshepo Bridgette Minyuku is adamant that nothing will deter her from wearing the coveted crown
POLOKWANE – This a 24-year-old from Ga Mashashane is a model, pageant judge and modelling coach extraordinaire.
“My mother, before she passed away in 2012, would always tell me she saw me as a model, and after that many people would tell me the same so I decided to give it try.”
Bridgette started modelling in 2013 and admits it was not an easy road. Initially, in 2013 she did not win a single title, but in 2014 her luck changed and she started winning pageants, and she currently has 20 titles to her name.
One of the most notable titles she won was the Face of Polokwane in 2014.
She adds that she qualified to represent South Africa in the International Talent Search in Orlando, Florida but was unable to raise money in time for the competition.
“It was heart-breaking because I really wanted to go. I was first scouted at Sun Meropa, made it to the nationals at Montecasino, was selected there to compete internationally, but it was not meant to be,” she says.
Another challenge she faces apart from raising money and finding sponsors, is getting people to support her.
“For some competitions you have to sell a certain number of tickets to be able to compete. It’s very difficult finding people who are willing to show support by buying tickets and this can be a serious stumbling block,” she added.
The graduate in hospitality and events management from Waterberg TVET College founded the Mega Elite Modelling Agency. She also holds motivational talks and is a master of ceremonies at events.
She has judged Face of Polokwane, Miss Mokgopong and Miss Festive Limpopo. Bridgette has a positive outlook on the future and says her 20 titles are just the beginning, especially as she is aiming for the Miss South Africa title.
“The modelling world can be rough, you must respect yourself.
“Education is important, so put school first. In everything you do, it’s not everyone who will support you but every time you fall, what matters is how many times you stand up again,” is her advice to aspiring models.
