Local beauty wants to win Miss Commonwealth South Africa 2018
“I am rather humbled to be part of such an amazing charity-driven programme.” said Claire Chinembiri.
Birchleigh North beauty Claire Chinembiri is a Miss Commonwealth South Africa 2018 finalist.
Claire is among seven other finalists vying to be the title-holder in this year’s competition.
“Being a finalist enables me to showcase who I am and what I can do for the Miss Commonwealth brand and, most importantly, for my community,” said Claire.
“It has given me the opportunity to interact with so many young women and act as a role model and mentor for them. Through the pageant, a platform is created for young women between ages 20 and 32 years to become charity ambassadors, adding value to the lives of those in need,” said Claire.
“I am rather humbled to be part of such an amazing charity-driven programme.”
Claire is no stranger to helping others and uplifting women of all ages. This was evident when she recently hosted a free self-defence class for girls and women of all ages at the Family Fitness Gym in Norkem Park with the help of Helping Hands Igniting.
Although Claire organised it, it was facilitated and taught by Sinothando Mva, who has vast judo experience.
“The rate of gender-based violence in the country is increasing and it is always heartbreaking to hear of a woman who has been a victim of gender-based violence,” explained Claire.
“With the 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children, I thought I would take this chance to teach women how to defend themselves in case, God forbid, they ever find themselves in a life-threatening situation.
“I really hope we never find ourselves in a situation where we have to use what we have learnt, but I feel more confident knowing that if we ever are in the situation, our chances of survival are better.”
Other charity events hosted by Claire include a girl empowerment day at John Wesley Children’s Home in Kempton Park, where different topics, such as education, confidence, dealing with failure and conflict resolution, were discussed.
The local finalist also told Express that winning the pageant would give her a bigger platform to do more meaningful outreach programmes.
“I will use the title to raise awareness of issues surrounding women empowerment, mostly among underprivileged girls and women, as well as raise awareness around bullying and cyber-bullying.”
The Birchleigh North resident is looking for sponsorship.
“I am looking to raise funds for my journey as well as for the Zingce Foundation. The foundation’s primary focus is to empower the next generation of young girls from disadvantaged communities,” she said.
“I will also be taking donations to contribute towards the Zingce Foundation. If you or your company is interested in being my sponsor, please contact me on clairechinembiri@gmail.com.”
The grand finale takes place on December 8 at the Summer Place Boutique Hotel in Klippoortjie AH, Germiston. Tickets can be purchased through Computicket under her name.
