POLOKWANE – Khutso Desry Sekole is a Miss Plus Size Is Me South Africa 2018 finalist who has her sights set on bringing change into the community. The 21-year old plus size model is currently busy with a computer clerk course through Boston College and has already obtained her occupational health and safety qualification.
The Miss Plus Size Is Me South Africa 2018 finals will take place in Bloemfontein on Saturday, 7 April.
Inspired by photographer and plus size model Thickleeyonce, Sekole has taken it upon herself to organise an anti-body shaming event for plus size women, believing that she can lead the in fighting against the stigma on what people can and cannot wear.
“Most plus size ladies don’t feel confident enough to wear certain things so I just want them to learn how to embrace their size. Not everyone can be a size 28, and it’s okay. Just accept yourself as you are. This event is meant to change the mentality of each and every person who is not comfortable with their body,” she explained.
She also owns her own clothing label, Des Louis, which is a combination of her and her brother’s names. “I take what would otherwise be random clothing items and make them stylish. I change them to suit my style, that is partly where the inspiration for the brand comes from. I also want to leave a legacy. I want my name to carry weight even after I am gone,” she explained.
In addition to her works of activism, she is currently busy with a project which creates awareness surrounding vaginal infections. In support of this initiative, she will be donating unscented pads in the Botlokwa area.
As more people are hands are needed to reach her set goals, Desry is appealing to anyone who can be of assistance with regards to donations or the organising of the body shaming event.
For more information or to be of any assistance, contact Desry at 065 885 1292, via e-mail at mabuksekole@gmail.com, on Facebook or on Instagram. To vote for her in the Miss Plus Size Is Me South Africa pageant, sms Khutso Desry to 35959.