Duduza – Nkonkeokuhle Nkosi (12), a tall and elegant Grade Seven learner, is determined to make her mark in the modeling and arts industry and inspire her community. Pageants were popular in Ekurhuleni secondary schools in the 1990s, but interest has declined over the years.

Nkosi said: “I started entering beauty pageants because I wanted a hobby that challenges me to step out of my comfort zone, improve continuously, and boost my confidence as a creative artist. I am ambitious to be a role model for girls my age in Duduza.”

Her mission is to revive modeling in the community as a platform that nurtures young girls’ confidence, addressing the low self-esteem that affects many township children.

Nkosi runs modeling classes at the Duduza Resource Centre, supported by her mother, where she trains aspiring young models to reach their potential.

In her two-year modeling career, she has won over fifty accolades, including Miss Royal Eagle 2025, Miss Youth Empowerment 2025, Miss Star of GP 2025, Miss Swaneville 2025, Miss Imperial Throne 2025, and Miss Superlative 2025.

“Being followed by peers on social media and supported by my community inspired me to open and manage my modeling institution,” Nkosi said.

She is inviting young girls seeking a hobby to enhance their confidence and gain a breakthrough in the arts to join her free classes at Duduza Resource Centre, Monday to Thursday. Nkosi emphasizes that modeling is not only about the catwalk; it is a performing art that requires creativity and expression.

Her mother, Siphokazi Tengana, added: “Even though supporting her is my natural duty as a parent, her passion for this craft makes it easy for me to give my full support. I have attended all her beauty pageants since she started in 2023, and I am proud of her dedication.”

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