“I am what I had dreamt to be—an inspiration and a voice”
Model Nosipho Dhlamini reflects on her rise from Alexandra to the pinnacle of pageantry and empowerment
Nosipho Dhlamini’s name echoes across Alexandra’s beauty and empowerment circles.
The story of the Alex-born model, radio presenter, entrepreneur and mentor isn’t just about crowns and the spotlight, but courage and empowerment.
Read more: Model determined to use pageantry to empower youth
Dhlamini’s modelling journey began 12 years ago at a pageant hosted by Black Rose Academy. It was her first time on stage, and everything seemed stacked against her. She recalled how difficult it was. “Funny thing is that the first time will always be the worst. I remember that time as though it were yesterday. Everyone had been telling me to quit just the day before the crowning, even my own mother, citing that I couldn’t even afford the outfits.”
But instead of quitting, she held her head high and walked onto that stage with nothing but belief, and walked off with the Model of the Year title. “From that day, I knew I was destined for greatness, and I started to venture more into other modelling spheres.”
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At just 16, she landed a deal with one of Africa’s largest hair expos, a feat that would be impressive at any age. But she wasn’t done. Her love for pageantry evolved into leadership, and by 21, she was the director of African Beauty Projects. She became the go-to stage director for major provincial pageants, shaping the very platforms she once competed on.
Beyond the glitz, her mission is rooted in her mentorship work. Dhlamini said she trained models professionally and mentored young women, offering them the guidance and inspiration she once longed for. “Growing up, I was bullied for my physique, my skin, my height. I wanted to become what I had expected to get back then, and I am glad to say I am what I had dreamt to be – an inspiration and a voice.”
She said her latest title, Miss Egoli First Princess 2025, came during one of the most difficult periods in her life, and it reminded her of the power she carries, not just as a woman in beauty, but as a woman of substance.
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