Zané Barnard dispels the beauty queen myths
Zané says taking part in pageants has also taught her critical life skills, such as how to manage friendships, competition and how to handle losing.
*To hear more about Zané’s future plans and how her titles affect her ability to compete overseas, download Pixzar to watch a video.
Nine-year-old Zané Barnard says pageants are a great way to build confidence and help others.
Zané is the reigning Miss Junior ZA, Miss Petite Tourism South Africa, Miss Petite Queen of the World and Miss Petite Africa and say what started out as a desire to follow in her mother’s footsteps has grown into a passion to help others and meet new people.
The Laerskool Selectionpark learner says taking part in pageants has given her a bigger platform to do her charity work.
“I don’t just take part in every pageant that comes along. I ask my mum what it is about because for me it’s not about the crown or the sash, it’s just I get to make friends and build self-confidence and show the world and judges what I’m capable of.
“Me winning the title is a bonus because I would still do charity work even if I didn’t win the title.
“I have a soft spot for the elderly as they are my favourite people and I love giving clothes and food to those in need, especially the little children living on the streets,” says Zané.
Also see: Geluksdal resident wins Mrs Gauteng 2019
Zané says taking part in pageants has also taught her critical life skills, such as how to manage friendships, competition and how to handle losing.
“When I get backstage, I make friends, but I also have to compete against them.
“It hasn’t made me a bad person, but I have become stronger from it and that’s made me a better person in the end.
“If I win a title, I don’t go brag about it at school or anything, I just feel happy and if I lose that competition, I go home to my mother and say I have to work harder for my next competition,” says Zané.
Zané says her other extra-curricular activities like drama and debating have also helped her on stage as she doesn’t feel nervous or scared to speak on camera or when she’s on stage.
When not on stage, Zané unwinds by playing with her dolls or spending time with her great grandparents, who she adores.
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