After being crowned Miss United Nations SA, 25-year-old Smangele Jili has become more confident and is ready to jet off to India where she will represent South Africa in the International pageant. Smangele hoped to step out of her comfort zone and challenge herself. She, therefore, pursued a career in modeling and teaching.
Speaking to the SUN, the bubbly individual said, “This experience has made me so proud of myself and has made me love myself. All of my life experiences have led me to where I am. I live to inspire. My life has changed and I have become the person that I have always been on the inside. This pageant will open doors for me and is the beginning of my forever.”
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Through the pageant, the young woman was able to travel by airplane for the first time and was delighted by the experience.
“My message to young people is never be afraid of the unknown. If you have a dream do not just dream it – face it with fear and always remain humble. It might seem like there are no opportunities but if you seek, you will find,” she said.
Another passion of hers is teaching mathematics, and she believes that with the right attitude she can inspire all learners to love the subject.
She hopes to travel and pursue a career in the media industry in the future. Smangele has participated in several pageants over the years, her most recent shows have been the Miss Famsa, Miss Umhlanga, Miss Unique and Miss Intertownship, where she grabbed top spots.
Another noteworthy aspect, when the beauty queen was five-years-old, she sustained severe burns to her body and still models with them as a way to empower others.
She young woman has been blessed with a wonderful and large family, who try to make time for each other as often as possible. She describes being with her family as magic.
“I am delighted to be travelling to India where I will compete against 50 other countries. The pageant takes place from 1 to 10 November and it does require a lot of preparation. I am so grateful for all the support and love that I have received from the community and especially from my Doon Heights family who I truly thank.”
If you would like to sponsor Smangele for the pageant, send an email to ssmahjili@gmail.com and follow her on Instagram @smangelejili and facebook at Smange Jili – Miss United Nations.
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