Pageant queen shares her journey to empowerment

“Whether it is a whisper or a scream, never let your voice be silenced.”

November 6, 2023

Jani de beer 2 minutes read

Garland queens Charmione Kilner (left) and Rhoda Toker with 2022 Mrs South Africa finalist, Yolandi Naicker.

Remaining strong when life gives you every reason to give up is a choice that is rewarded with great opportunity.

This was the message that 2022 Mrs South Africa finalist and Kempton Park resident, Yolandi Naicker, shared at the Garlands Ladies Luncheon Club at Ebotse on October 26.

Taking a seat on their ‘thrones’, members of the club and guests listened as the local beauty shared her story of being a shy girl from Kwa-Zulu Natal who forged a way to become a motivational speaker and a commercial model.

Raised by a single mother, this mom of two had to overcome a severe rare disease which affected her voice but never silenced it.

“At the age of nine, I had to undergo an emergency operation to remove growths from my vocal cords, which was hampering not only my ability to speak but was making it increasingly difficult to breathe,” said Naicker.

Yolandi Naicker, 2022 Mrs South Africa finalist, speaks about meeting your power.

“I had to undergo this procedure 35 times over 33 years,” she said.

“My raspy voice led to severe ridicule from my peers, thus resulting in me shying away from attention.”

Keeping her circle of friends small, Naicker immersed herself in a world of make-believe. Playing with her dolls she imagined being outspoken and having her voice and views heard.

At the age of 41 and following prompts from her husband, who she describes as her best friend, she cast caution to the wind to face her fears by entering the Mrs SA pageant.

“Having been a commercial model for several years prior to my entry, I decided to embark on this journey,” she said.

The centre pieces at this month’s Garlands Ladies Luncheon Club celebrated the guests and members, who are all queens in their own right.

“I had a story to tell and I was willing to let the world hear it, rasp and all,” she said.

“Not only did my fellow contestants, the judges and the public listen, but suddenly I had the opportunity to meet my unique power. I use my newfound confidence to motivate and inspire.”

Looking out on a room filled with Garlands, some of whom have experienced epic adventures, faced adversity and wholly supported the journey of each woman in their midst, Naicker said that by giving heed to the voice within, we have the power to inspire others.

“We all have a story and through sharing what we hold dear in our heart has the potential of unlocking another’s voice which may have been silenced due to insecurity.”

The Garlands meet monthly in the Katse Room. For more information or to book your seat, email Margie Kostelac at margie.h@mweb.co.za.