Alra Park resident Zenande Lefela (21) is preparing to take the national stage after being announced as a finalist in the Pageant Girl Closet Ambassador Class of 2026.

The competition forms part of the Pageant Girl Closet Ambassador programme, which has previously crowned an ambassador and runner-up for the 2025/2026 cycle.

The Class of 2026 finalists have been announced as preparations continue for the next stage of the competition.

Lefela is also representing the Ekurhuleni and Sedibeng region in the competition, bringing the spotlight back to Alra Park and the surrounding communities.

Born and raised in Alra Park, Nigel, she attended Effort Primary School before completing her high school education at NN Ndebele High School in Duduza. It was during her school years that she developed an interest in music and modelling.

Lefela said she sees this as an opportunity to challenge perceptions about young people from townships and encourage young women to pursue their ambitions.

“Growing up in Alra Park taught me resilience, because many people see Alra Park and think limitation, but I see strength, community and untold stories. I may come from a small township, but my dreams are tailored for big stages. Alra Park gave me roots, but it will not give me limits. Confidence is a skill you practise, not something you are born with,” she said.

The 2026 competition is being presented under the ‘Tailored’ theme, with Lefela interpreting the concept as an opportunity to express her identity, confidence and purpose.

Her preparations include catwalk practice, public speaking and working with local designers. She also wants her pageant journey to have a community component by engaging with young girls in Alra Park, Duduza and Tsakani.

Alongside modelling and pageantry, music remains an important part of her career.

“Music is my voice, pageantry is my platform and I balance them with discipline. If I’m given the opportunity to serve as an ambassador, I would like to use the platform to create workshops for young people in Nigel, focusing on singing, modelling, public speaking and developing their talents. I want to encourage young women to work hard, stay humble, pray, and let their focus be louder than their fear,” she said.