Louis Trichardt beauty earns Miss World SA top 12 spot
Munei Tsanwani said she represents a girl that went after her dream against all odds and that she owes it to her community to make a difference.
LIMPOPO – Winning the Miss Royal Gardens title in 2019 was a turning point for Munei Tsanwani after she joined the world of modelling.
The 25-year-old from Biaba in Louis Trichardt was recently chosen as a top 12 finalist in the Miss World South Africa pageant.
Tsanwani holds a B.Sc degree in biochemistry and biology from the University of Venda, and an honours degree in biochemistry from the University of Johannesburg.
She works as a clinical data analyst in a pharmaceutical company, and is also the co-founder of the Alfred Kutuma Foundation, which is dedicated to making a positive impact. The foundation focuses on assisting disadvantaged families in the remote areas of the Vhembe district.
She said the victory opened her eyes to the endless possibilities life has to offer, teaching her that the sky is not the limit but only the beginning.
“Growing up, I had always envisioned using my talents in singing, however, God had different plans for me. It transformed my perspective, instilling in me a self-belief and illuminating the numerous opportunities that exist beyond my initial aspirations. I firmly believe in dreaming big, and my participation in the pageant significantly bolstered my confidence. Although I don’t possess an extensive modelling experience, I decided to challenge myself in 2022 by submitting an entry video for Miss South Africa.”
Regrettably, she said, she did not make it far, but when the opportunity again arose this year, she grabbed it with both hands.
“Being part of this remarkable group of 12 young women in South Africa is a genuine blessing. They are not only stunning but also highly educated and determined to make their voices heard. Each one shines in her respective field, and it is this diversity and strength that make Miss World South Africa truly special,” said Tsanwani.
She said being in the Top 12 of Miss World South Africa for her means she is deserving, and can make an impact wherever she is.
“I am a representation of a girl that went after her dream against all odds. Being in the top 12 means that I owe it to my community to make a difference. I am determined to never give up, and consider myself a fighter. Whatever it is that God has placed in my heart, whatever dreams I hold, I pursue them relentlessly.”
She told CV she believes the most significant challenge she has encountered in the field has been constant rejection.
“I never allowed these setbacks to deter me. I firmly believe in the importance of perseverance. Receiving countless ‘no responses’ only served to fortify my determination and drive. It taught me that while there may be delays, they should never be perceived as denials. When you truly desire something, you must relentlessly pursue it until you attain it. Surrendering or giving up should never be considered as viable options in the pursuit of your dreams,” she said.
She advises other young girls to be intentional about everything they do. “Put in 100% in everything you do. Love yourself, believe in yourself. Have a positive outlook on life. You are worth it, you are deserving. The only thing stopping you is yourself,” she concluded.
