Get to know your 2019 role models
The current Mr and Miss Benoni competed in the pageant for the second time and this year they were undoubtedly ready for the challenge.
Benoni’s 2019 ambassadors, Jacob Nkwamba and Alexia Cawood, although teenagers, already have plans for their future after school.
“Our aim during our reign is to focus on the youth,” the duo said.
“We want to create a sense of unity and security among the youth.”
Alexia who just turned 18, and is a St Dunstan’s College learner, said she has been competing in pageants since she was a toddler and sees a future for herself in writing, fashion, public speaking and being the future Miss Universe.
“At St Dunstan’s I take drama and I am studying towards my diploma in Drama at Trinity College,” Alexia said.
“Next year I would like to take a gap year and travel, I want to publish a book filled with poetry and take a make-up course,” she added.
Jacob attends King Edward VII in Johannesburg and hopes to pursue a career in political science, law and psychology in 2021.
“I am the protocol officer to the speaker of the council at school, I am an athlete and have Gauteng colours for playing in the rhino rugby week. I also played for the Valke during my primary school days and was selected to play with the Lions but did not, due to an injury,” he said.
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“I love to go to the gym; I live in Crystal Park but attend school in Johannesburg because I received a rugby scholarship, I am in the marimba, chess, debating and basketball teams,” he added.
The two said their first attempt in the competition was a decision they took by themselves, however, the decision to compete for a second time had some influence from their mothers.
“Challenge yourself, if you do not then you won’t go far in life,” Jacob said.
Alexia said: “Be confident, take the chance and do what your heart desires, I believe that pageants like this help youngsters to unlock their confidence.”
Apart from what they aim to do for Benoni, both Alexia and Jacob consider themselves to be extroverts.
“I am highly influenced by those around me, I have many friends but a smaller inner circle,” Alexia said.
She added that she would go the extra mile for any of her friends when they are in need.
“I enjoy making people laugh, I love to listen to people’s problems or stories and would consider myself as someone persistent,” Jacob said.
The two said they are ecstatic about working in Benoni and for Benoni.
“We hope to make our town a better place,” they concluded.
