VANDERBIJLPARK. – Tanita de Gouveia was recently crowned as Miss Junior Teen Role Model RSA. This title is just one of many that she has won over the years.
She started modeling when she was only five years old. Her coach, Natasha Menino-Costa, says she is one of her star pupils, who has been crowned National Ace Model of the year three times in a row.
Tanita loves to participate in the pageants, but it’s not all about winning. She really wants to make a difference in the community.
That’s why she appreciates winning working-titles like Miss Junior Teen Role Model RSA so much.
Tanita has been involved with community projects for quite some time. Her Oodles of Noodles project has been providing children’s homes with two-minute noodles three years in a row.
This young lady is working on some or other community project at least once a month.
“I just want to inspire others and make a difference,” she says with shining eyes. She clearly is a natural leader and role model as she is also the head girl at Word of Life – Christian School’s primary section in Acorn Park.
She will complete her high school years at Word of Life as well, and then she wants to become a teacher.
“One day I want to own my own nursery school”, she says with determination. “That’s been her dream since I’ve met her when she was 5 years old,” adds Natasha proudly.
When she is not competing in pageants or doing community projects, Tanita enjoys playing chef in the kitchen.
“I love to cook and to bake”, she declares, and Natasha adds that Tanita is a real barista who makes the best coffee.
Apart from finishing primary school in style, Tanita is looking forward to attending the South African Children’s Awards on 16 December. She is a finalist in the 13 – 15-year age group.
2022 is set up to be an exciting year for her. As Miss Junior Teen Role Model RSA she is going to represent South Africa in an international competition in Orlando, Florida in the USA and she has her eyes firmly set on the Miss World Tween title as well.
Tanita’s special message for other youngsters is: “Never give up on your dreams. Always believe in yourself.
