Beauty had a hard time with rejection
'I had an accident that left half of my body burnt at age seven years' Miss Commonwealth pageant finalist, Dikeledi Mashao.
LIMPOPO – TOP 16 finalist in the Miss Commonwealth pageant, Dikeledi Mashao from Mashashane, says she always wanted to be a model but was discouraged because she did not look like a model as prescribed by society.
“I had an accident that left half of my body burnt at age seven years. Although I have healed completely, the scars are still there.” She says she had a hard time dealing with rejection but has since learnt to overcome it.
She wants to win the pageant because she wants to create a culture that inspires, equips and unleashes talent. “This title will allow me to become the social entrepreneur that I aspire to be. It will help to contribute towards educating the youth for a better South Africa by establishing sustainable mentorship programmes on a broader scale.”
She says she believes that women can be career driven and still take part in social activities such as pageants. “I hold an honours degree in pharmacy from Wits University and am currently working at Jane Furse Hospital. I have also registered for a diploma in sports science as a fitness and exercise specialist.”
She says she believes that a lot of physical conditions can be controlled by a healthy, balanced lifestyle accompanied by fitness. Dikeledi says she is most proud of the community services she has been involved in. “I have also taken an interest in assisting at the local shelter called Little Angels, for disabled children suffering from neurological disorders. The work done by the women at the shelter is emotionally draining and volunteers are highly appreciated.”
She admits that it was not easy to make it as a model but is happy with everything she has achieved, and encourages the youth to go after their dreams regardless the negative opinions they may get from others.
“I am also expected to raise funds for the pageant itself as the titleholder has to represent SA in the international pageant that will be held in London in November. I need sponsorship from local businesses in exchange for lucrative advertising deals. Those interested can send me an e-mail to immashao@gmail.com,” she says.
To help make her dream come true vote by sending an SMS with ‘Dikeledi Mashao’ in the content to 35554.
