Two months after celebrating its 2025 winners, the Mr & Miss Alexandra Heritage organisation has moved swiftly to transform pageantry into purpose.
On November 15, the Alexandra Heritage Centre hosted Ability Beyond Limits, an event designed to shift perceptions of disability from limitation to empowerment, and to place inclusivity at the heart of community life.

The initiative was organised by Mbalenhle Ngwenya, first princess of Mr & Miss Alexandra Heritage 2025, who underscored the importance of tackling stigma directly through youth advocacy. “The participation of young people was crucial because they are future leaders, change makers, and advocates for disability inclusion. We involved them to innovate solutions, build movement, promote inclusive culture, and foster intergenerational learning.”

Read more: Alexandra youth initiative drives disability awareness and inclusion

Participants, such as Layla Bills, the 2025 queen and social butterfly of Sipho Sethu Art Project, said the programme was deeply personal and educative. “I personally learned a lot of things, met new people, and found myself a safe space full of joy, love, and support.”

Also read: Afrika Tikkun’s disability and inclusion symposium unites communities

Yet the event also revealed gaps. Despite being dedicated to children living with disabilities, their representation was notably low. This concern was raised by Linda Akromah, founder of the Reconstructive Support Fund (RSF), which works to ensure children with treatable disabilities gain access to life-changing surgery. “Representation helps build confidence and challenges stigma. We would like to emphasise the importance of encouraging children with disabilities to take part in competitions such as these.”

Akromah commended the organisers for their vision, noting that programmes like Ability Beyond Limits keep children positively engaged outside of school. She urged continued efforts to ensure children with disabilities are not only included, but celebrated. “ [RSF] appreciates the initiative, and would like to encourage organisers to continue opening doors for all children to participate fully and proudly.”

The day also featured indigenous games, reinforcing the value of cultural heritage in youth development. Hlengiwe Ngubane, founder of Mr & Miss Alexandra Heritage, said the activities highlighted how much young people benefit from such platforms. Looking ahead, she confirmed that similar events are planned to sustain momentum and deepen impact.

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