First princess title for Marburg’s Yashina

For many entering a pageant is about beauty, says Yashina Singh from Marburg, however she begs to differ, especially after being crowned first princess in the Mrs Royal International Pageant 2023, which was a different experience for her.

Founded by Farzana Mayet, the CEO of Panache Promotions, Woman of Wonder Awards Locally and Internationally, as well as Rosa Van Niekerk of Crown Up Beauty, Yashina said Mrs Royal International showcased women of empowerment, diversity, intelligence, and leadership.

“The platform has given me the opportunity to grow within myself. It was more than just standing on a stage, the glitz and the glamour. It was hard work, which took courage, strength, tenacity, discipline, and consistency. It’s not something for the faint of heart,” Singh explained.
Held at the Hilton Hotel in Johannesburg in December last year, Singh said her journey to the finals was truly an emotional one.

“I was blessed to share the grand finale with women who have become friends, such as Monique Taylor (queen), Yumna Khan (second princess) and finalists Khanyisile Mduli and Nomsa Mokoena.
“Being crowned first princess was such a humbling experience and I was proud that I finished the race I started irrespective of its outcome. Every woman who entered was a winner for me, for the courage to participate. That on its own is an achievement,” she added.

She said as a survivor of the Covid-19 virus and having lost her partner, Rishi Duki to the same virus, she truly believes that she was guided by him throughout her journey, giving her the strength to finish.

“It was not easy, however I’m grateful to family, friends and sponsors who rallied around me to help accomplish my vision to its completion.

She said what she took from her experience at the pageant and as the founder of The Lady of Purple, one of her visions is to create a purpose for a better tomorrow.

“My vision is to bring women together who have been through their trials and tribulations and help them support each other. We need to be a sounding board that can help propel each other through this journey of life. We cannot do it alone. There’s a quote that says “you rise by lifting others” and I truly believe that we can. Instead of fighting against the storms, it would be so wonderful if we all rowed in the same direction against our storms of life.”

Yashina is also a volunteer at Ignite Revolution, a non-profit organisation, and said women and men who need counselling or a shoulder to cry on are always welcome at Ignite.

“We bring hope together for ourselves and others. It’s is easier to go through hardships with others supporting you and being by your side. It gives you strength knowing you are not alone,” she encouraged.

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