Eldos beauty pageant crowns new models

The newly-crowned king and queens of Mr and Miss Eldorado Park 2024 (MMEP) have vowed to lead by example and impact positive change in their local communities.

Damion Bracks (25) was crowned Mr Eldos, Gabriella Natazia Ferrero (11) was crowned Miss Junior, Ciara Kaitlyn Cox (22) was crowned Miss Eldos and Mrs Eldos is Savanah Wax (27).

They were crowned during a beauty contest event held at Don Mateman Hall, EXT 5, Eldorado Park, on July 27.

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Thrilled by his achievements, Bracks said he was humbled and honoured to have been chosen by the judges to win the title.

“I feel very excited because I am the first Mr Eldorado Park 2024 within the Miss Eldorado Park Pageant,” said Bracks.

“I will use this title to demonstrate positive ideals and compassion for the people in my community. By doing this, I will be a role model to the youngsters of Eldorado Park.”

He said he wants to be an example to young men within the community by inspiring them to follow their aspirations and work hard to achieve their dreams.

The four had to impress five judges, including Robin Jones, Terry-Anne Adams, Yolandi Naicker, Tasnim Young-Norris, and Lee McCabe.

Cox said as the new queen, she prays that the Lord will guide her on this journey and that she will serve her community to the best of her abilities.

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Cox is from EXT 4, Eldorado Park and she is passionate about uplifting disadvantaged families in her community.

It all started in 2017 when she volunteered at the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul, which provides non-perishable food items to less fortunate families every Saturday morning at Saint Catherine of Siena, EXT 8, Eldorado Park.

“I would like to thank each and every one who voted for me. Your votes allowed me to win the Miss Eldorado Park Public Choice Award.

“I would also like to thank those who donated noodles when we did our Noodle Charity Drive. Your donation allowed me to win the Miss Eldorado Park Philanthropist Award,” said Cox.

Ferrero’s proud parents, Mario Ferrero (father) and Natalia Rudd (mother), said their daughter was always an adventurous child.

Rudd said this was her first pageant competition and that she loves soccer and dancing.

“We encourage her to be kind and supportive but most of all, to have understanding towards the next individuals.

She will be participating in many community charity events, and we will ensure that we support her by being present at the events,” she continued.

“That will help us understand what she requires when she goes out there. It will also to get her to understand that we may not be able to help everyone, but if we changed one person’s life, we would have made a difference,” said Rudd.

Ferrero said she was overwhelmed with excitement for the opportunity, but she knows that her work starts now, and she needs to uphold her crown by making her community proud.

MMEP was reintroduced by Nazli Isaacs and Naeema Pedro in 2019, with the aim of empowering and pave a way forward for the youth.

The pageant is directed by two sisters, backed by their amazing mother and a phenomenal team.

According to Pedro, MMEP operates on the foundation of family values, teamwork, dedication and kindness.

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“If we help one person find their authentic voice every year, then we have achieved our goal.

“The pageant does not only focus on modelling; we also build confidence, promote positive mental health, and fight social ills. We thank local businesses for their support; it will go a long way in developing a sharp and active youth,” said Pedro.

Winners’ summary
Miss Junior Eldorado Park;
The second princess is Mechaela Ogle.
The first princess is Stacey Adriaanse.
The queen is Gabriella Ferrero.
Mr Eldorado Park
The first prince is Elano Morgan.
The King is Damion Bracks.
Miss Eldorado Park
The second princess is Laylaa Bosman.
The first princess is Chandree Solomons.
The Queen is Ciara Cox.