Benoni teenager Zonika Kleyn is turning her journey of confidence and self-discovery into a platform to inspire girls across her community and beyond.

The 17-year-old has created SHE DID THAT, a podcast by a teenager, for teenagers, focusing on the real stories behind young girls’ achievements and challenges.

Zonika wants to speak to girls achieving in academics, sport, culture and leadership, but also to those whose achievements may not come with a trophy or certificate

She believes that overcoming a difficult period, rebuilding confidence, standing up for yourself or finding the courage to start again can be an achievement worth celebrating.

“I want people to see that there is always a story behind the achievement,” she said

The podcast’s message is simple: She did that. Maybe I can too.

The idea comes from Zonika’s own experience of stepping outside her comfort zone.

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In August 2025, the Benoni student entered the Mr and Miss Kempies Competition at Hoërskool Kempton Park, initially wanting to experience something new. She was awarded First Princess.

The experience changed how she saw herself and encouraged her to pursue modelling and pageantry.

In January, she joined Ace Models Rosebank, where she has continued to develop her confidence, communication, discipline, and stage presence.

She has since been awarded Miss Face of Ace International 2026 and Miss Ace Rosebank and is currently a finalist in the Mr & Miss ACE Models International competition, which takes place in December.

But Zonika wants her journey to be about more than titles

She is also involved in her community, supporting the Kempton SPCA and volunteering at the Grace International Kids Home Centre, where she has spent time with 39 underprivileged children.

These experiences have strengthened her belief that making an impact can start with something as simple as listening, encouraging someone or making them feel seen.

That is the approach she wants to bring to SHE DID THAT.

Through conversations with other teenagers, Zonika plans to ask the questions often left out of success stories: What did it really take to get there? Did you ever want to give up? What happened when things did not go according to plan? What did you learn

She hopes the podcast and its social media platforms will spotlight girls in schools and communities and give young listeners relatable examples of resilience and achievement.

Ultimately, Zonika hopes the stories could become a book.

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