Miss Teen Regional Province finalist shares her story

Ulwazi Xakaza (16) grew up in Mayberry Park and currently lives in Alberton.

She described herself as ‘very talkative’ while growing up, yet never imagined herself doing pageants.

“I initially joined Mr and Miss Teen Alberton to support my friend, the director of the pageant. My friend explained it was a platform for building self-confidence and making a difference in the lives of people and communities,” said Ulwazi.

First pageant winnings

Ulwazi won the titles of Miss Social Media and Miss Teen Personality Alberton at the Mr and Miss Teen Alberton pageant in 2022.

“Although these titles were not the main winning title, I knew I did what was required to win the title of Miss Social Media, but did not expect to win.

“I also did not expect to win the title of Miss Teen Personality but won because my family and friends voted for me,” said Ulwazi.

Her biggest challenges

She highlighted her biggest challenges are body shaming and encountering people who tell her she is not good enough.

“To deal with these challenges, I remind myself that this is my body and the opinions of other people do not matter. I am good enough and I am doing this for myself.

“I see my name in the same sentence as Miss South Africa.”

Inspiration and a charitable heart

Nelson Mandela inspires the young model.

“I am inspired by him because he stood his ground. I admire the courage he had to fight for what he needed to fight for. What touches my soul is he believed he could be the change South Africa needed.”

Ulwazi recently visited St Mary’s Children’s Home, where she learnt so much from her visit.

“I look forward to doing more charity work by visiting children’s homes in Johannesburg,” said Ulwazi.

Pageant preparations

“To prepare for the Miss Teen Regional Province pageant, I do public speaking at church and assembly at school. I speak to my dog as if I interview him. This helps me to be confident enough to answer the questions on stage at the pageant.

“I also walk around the house in high heels, doing household tasks and walking up and down the stairs to ensure that I am well prepared.

Strong support system

Her friends and family are her biggest supporters. “My pageant mom, Marilyn Ngubane, who is the director of the Miss Teen Regional Province is always there for us. I appreciate her help and guidance. My friends are always encouraging me, speaking about me and voting for me. My supporters include people I do not know and I am grateful for them,” said Ulwazi.

The future awaits

“I plan to study law after I complete high school. My mom is a lawyer. She is a powerful and remarkable woman and I want to follow in her footsteps. My long-term goals include starting my own pageant and travelling the world.”

Ulwazi aspires to help, educate, and empower people through pageantry. She also wants to change the misconception about pageants.

“My message to young boys and girls is, be yourself. Always believe in yourself and know that you can accomplish anything you put to mind. Do not let anyone bring you down,” said Ulwazi.

Ulwazi encourages her supporters to vote for her. Comment and like on Instagram @missteenrgp