When Mbanga touched down in the Philippines to represent South Africa at the international Miss Earth competition, she had already made her presence known.
Following on from the gold medals she won for the Educational Challenge and Environmental Workshop: African Presentation, the 24-year-old transport economics major took top honours for National Costume on 25 November.
Mbanga showcased a one-of-a-kind design, created by Sonwabile Ndamase of Vukani Range Creations.
Best known for creating the brightly coloured, patterned ‘Madiba shirts’ made famous by former South African statesman Nelson Mandela, Ndamase was humbled and honoured when he heard of Miss Earth South Africa’s success.
“I am thrilled and invigorated that the dress, which I designed, has won gold status for the National Costume category. It is especially meaningful in the context of Miss Earth, in which creative and aesthetic beauty become ambassadors for the beauty and preservation of creation itself. I am humbled and, of course, elated,” Ndamase said.
Miss Earth South Africa executive director, Catherine Constantinides said, “We have no doubt that Ashanti will do us proud, she knows what it takes to go all the way. We are proud of her efforts as a green ambassador, not only for Miss Earth, but for our beautiful country.”
Mbanga is representing South Africa as she takes part in a competition that has gained unprecedented traction over the years.
She arrived in Manila, Philippines in November and will spend the next week in South East Asia, travelling throughout the Philippines visiting schools and communities, promoting environmental campaigns and programmes, and meeting with dignitaries and environmental bodies across the region.
Details: www.missearthsa.co.za
