Roodekrans beauty aims for Miss Teen Commonwealth SA

Malisya Morris has been chosen as one of 50 Semi-Finalists for the Miss Teen Commonwealth South Africa.

The 18-year-old decided to enter the competition to spread her message of female empowerment and peace and unity in the country.

“Helping people is my passion, I cannot stand to see a person struggling. The title of Miss Teen Commonwealth will help me make a positive contribution to my community and combat poverty. It is a platform that I can use to empower women of all ages to become charity and culture ambassadors within the country and the broader international community. The title holders become involved in charitable causes and uphold the aims and objectives of the Commonwealth. It would be a privilege if I, in my personal capacity could contribute to racial harmony, poverty eradication and cultural cohesion,” said Malisya.

She chose Food SA as her charity to work with. The non-profit organisation (NPO) that believes chances at a better life begins with a full tummy and are committed to feeding the hearts, minds and tummies of South African children who are forced to go to school on an empty stomach.

She recently held a fundraiser on their behalf at Cradlestone Mall and raised R3100.

“The money will go a long way in helping those who need it most and I am grateful to the people who listened when I told them about Feed SA and were willing to donate,” she said.

The Hoërskool Florida pupil also wants to spread the message of entrepreneurship, an idea that she also aspires to by designing dresses.

“I want to create a concept of entrepreneurship to those who come from disadvantaged backgrounds especially women. This is a way to combat poverty and create a better community that is able to sustain itself. I love to design clothing and I hope these skills will allow me to help those who need it,” said Malisya.

The grade 11 pupil is a talented acrobatic dancer and has participated in various Integrated Artistic Acrobatic Association of South Africa (IAAASA) National competitions, winning several silver and gold medals and trophies.

She is also a painter and loves old renaissance paintings.

“Dancing and painting are ways that I express myself. It is very calming for me and I am very passionate about it,” she said.

The Grand Finale of this pageant will take place at the Lyric Theatre at Gold Reef City on 12 September.

The winner will represent South Africa at the International pageant in London in November.

All 53 Commonwealth member States are invited to send their representatives to compete for the prestigious titles.

To support Malisya, use the SMS line and vote for her. SMS her name and surname to 35554. Each SMS costs R3.

You can also like her Facebook page: Malisya Morris Miss Teen Commonwealth SA Semi Finalist 2015