Nikyla Moodley (15) continues flourishing as the reigning Miss Teen Africa 2023.
“I knew from the beginning that this was not an easy competition. I had to prepare myself mentally and physically for the best outcome.
“This took dedication and commitment, with long hours of practice and overcoming obstacles.
“I did this with the support of my coach Hanlie van Rooyen, and my mom who always sacrificed her time to ensure I am well prepared. Reaching my feeling of contentment I knew I needed to stay calm, focus and believe in myself,” she explained.
The event, hosted by Carolyn Baldwin Botha of Pageants SA, was at Proclamation Hill in Pretoria.
“It is an honour to be crowned Miss Teen Africa 2023, especially at my age. I will always carry this title, and the rest of my titles, with dignity and pride.
“I will use my titles to create platforms and to continue to make a difference because I believe together we can make a change,” she added.
The Veritas College learner has been in the modelling industry since she was four. Nikyla was also crowned Miss Petite Africa in 2017.
She has been assisting many charity organisations, families in need, and not forgetting her furry friends at the SPCA.
“I love modelling. I became more self-confident over the years. I am extremely excited to continue this journey of making a difference and being the change. I believe people with great passion can make the impossible happen.
The biggest adventure you can take is to live the life of your dreams and never give up,” she said.
Charlene, Nikyla’s mother, said modelling is no easy task.
“There is a lot that goes into it. It’s not about a pretty dress and a walk on the stage. It takes courage, strength, determination, and most of all, dedication and commitment. This is what I see in Nikyla,” she said.
She also admits that as a parent, she makes great sacrifices to help her daughter succeed.
“Seeing her smile as she walks down the ramp so elegantly and gracefully makes everything worthwhile.
“As we know, we all win some and lose some which is perfectly okay. Nikyla accepts that but will always continue to try again.
“She has a heart of gold and strength to match. I am extremely proud of the young, vibrant lady she is becoming,” she said.
