Regional semi-finalist for the Miss Earth South Africa 2015 title, Nikita Lagler (22) from Harmelia, recently visited the Ithembelihle Lsen School in Primrose, to plant a food garden.
Nikita, who found out about the Miss Earth competition from a former contestant, hopes the programme will give her the opportunity to be part of something special.
“I am hoping to be a part of something bigger than myself, and in doing so, educate myself as well as others on how to live a greener life,” she explained.
The Miss Earth South Africa programme is focused on developing young women through the vehicle of environmental education.
Miss Earth South Africa is a leadership programme that aims to empower young South African women with the knowledge and platform to create a sustainable difference in the plight to combat the destruction of South Africa’s natural heritage.
“We are excited with the current group of Miss Earth South Africa regional semi-finalists,” said Catherine Constantinides, executive director of the Miss Earth South Africa programme.
“Projects to be completed include a food garden or waste project with a primary school, plant ten indigenous trees, as well as partake in the annual Miss Earth South Africa clean-ups.
“We look forward to seeing the results as these young ladies embark on their green journeys within their communities.”
Nikita, who matriculated from Leeuwenhof Akademie and currently works for Modern Athlete, was first told about the Ithembelihle Lsen School by staff at Norman House School in Edenvale.
“After making contact with the school, nine children in the skills class and I planted a food garden,” she explained.
“I did this project in the hope that these children will use the skills they have learned to generate some sort of income when they leave the school one day.”
When asked about her time with the children Nikita said, “It was emotional, overwhelming and the most enjoyable experience I have had in a long time.
“These children are just so happy and content with life and so enthusiastic, it was amazing to see.”
Nikita plans to continue her work with the school and explained that she already has two more projects planned.
“I will still be doing a recycling project, as well as a tree planting project,” she said.
The Miss Earth South Africa finalists will be announced in July.
