Benoni Agricultural Holdings and Crystal Park teens, Connor Stuart and Motshidisi Tlaka, were crowned Mr and Miss Benoni at a prestigious event on October 16 at Kopanong Hotel and Conference Centre.
The 44th annual Mr and Miss Benoni pageant, under the theme Fire and Ice, was organised by Rampage Modelling Agency.
The much-anticipated Mr and Miss Benoni attracted 38 young hopefuls from Benoni and surrounding areas, but only 30 contestants went through to the finals.
The first round of the competition saw contestants in their swimwear representing their sponsors, bringing on their best runway walks to impress the judges.
The judges were Jethro Tait (musician and songwriter), Chanley Wong (TV and radio presenter), Tandi Potgieter (Mrs South Africa and Miss Personality 2019), Ntokozo Nhlapo (Miss Benoni 2021) and Yakim Junade Ali (Mr Benoni 2021). Miss Benoni 2010 Nomuzi Mabena and DJ Zinhle also graced the event with their presence.
During the second round, contestants looked dazzling in their evening gowns. They were given a chance to introduce themselves to the audience and judges.
The moment of truth arrived when six girls and boys were chosen for the top six spots. Finalists then had to answer questions from the judges.
Crowning
2021 winners Yakim Junade Ali from Rynfield and Ntokozo Nhlapo from Daveyton handed over their sashes and crown to the 2022/23 winners.
Meshack Maleka is the first prince while Zander Naude was crowned as the second prince. The first princess prize went to Shantel Moropa while Dunay van Zyl was crowned the second princess.
Kelsy Ferreira is this year’s Mr and Miss Benoni Debutant. This is the contestant who assisted in raising and contributing the most to the pageant’s charity.
Miss Benoni City Times People’s Choice 2022/23 winners were Palesa Bambisa and Clinten Lubbe. Over 6000 votes were received after Benoni City Times readers voted for their favourite to win the Benoni City Times People’s Choice Award.
Speaking to City Times, Motshidisi of Ashbury College said she was happy to be the winner, although she wasn’t expecting it.
Stuart, who is a learner at Maranatha Christian School, said: “ I wasn’t expecting to win as I was doing this for fun. I am excited that I won. I am overwhelmed with a great feeling.”
Sponsors for the event included Actuator Valve Solutions, Benneton Insurance Brokers, Chickitas Fashion Boutique, Coral Palm Developments, Dandelion Distribution, Dent Carpets, Dual Valves, East Side Barbers, Hi-Flyers Aviation Bar, MCA Projects, Minuteman Press, MRT Spa, Pablos Mexican Cantina, Pick n Pay Oakfields, Sesfigile Logistics, Splash H20 Dive Academy, Sports Buddy and World of Wellness.
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