Local mom in the run for Lady Gracious finalist
Finalists will be announced the weekend of June 4.
A mother of two from Pomona, Nadia van der Merwe (34), hopes she will be nominated as a finalist in this year’s Lady Gracious Pageant.
The pageant is the brainchild of Suret Stroh, who started it six years ago after entering several pageants, including Mrs Modern Woman and Mrs United Nations.
The pageant, which is more than just a beauty contest, gives women, aged between 21 and 55 years, an opportunity to not only grow and empower themselves but also uplift others with the charity work contestants are involved in.
“My dream is to inspire, encourage and bless every woman out there so they know they are special, unique and beautiful and that God loves you no matter what,” said Van der Merwe.
She was nominated by her friend Yolandi Erasmus (finalist of Ms South Africa Nationals 2015) and entered Lady Gracious South Africa on February 16. She was announced a candidate at the end of February.
“I’ve entered the pageant to challenge myself and to go out of my comfort zone, but also for the great journey with God, to bring out the purpose He has for my life and use it for good and be a blessing for others.
This year I’ve made a decision to make a change and be the change, not just for women but for my community.”
As a candidate of this pageant it’s not all about a beautiful face but being valuable in society, hence the women work with numerous charities. This year they are raising funds for Avril Elizabeth Home whose mission it is to provide a high standard of both residential and day care to the intellectually disabled from all sectors of the community.
Van der Merwe will host a morning tea, Cup a Grace, on July 2 to raise funds for the Avril Elizabeth Home project.
Guest speakers will be Theunis Nel, presenter on Pasella, and Morne Emery, one of the top four finalists of Mr South Africa 2014.
Guests will also enjoy a special performance by the team of Shaolin Martial Arts in Kempton Park with a Thai Chi performance. Loads of giveaways will be up for grabs.
Tickets are available at R150 a person, including a light meal and snack with coffee and tea.
“Anyone that makes a donation or sponsor me will be advertised in our Glamour magazine and on screen at the gala evening.”
The candidates’ ability to come up with the funds for Avril Elizabeth Home will put them in better standing for making it to the finals for Lady Gracious. Finalists will be announced the weekend of June 4.
If you would like to assist, contact Nadia on 083-360-8435 or nadiavdmerwe123@gmail.com.
