Mabontle hopes to win Miss Inspire SA

Tembisa-born Miss Inspire SA finalist Mabontle Mabiletsa hopes to bag the title at the grand finale at Benoni’s Lakeside Mall on March 30.

The 19-year-old is currently a second-year credit management student at Tshwane University of Technology. Mabontle grew up in a Christian family in Difeteng, Tembisa. She attended Mooifontein Primary School and Norkem Park High School. She says it has been awesome growing up in Difeteng and her family has been very supportive, especially her granny, Archbishop Elizabeth Mabiletsa.

Mabontle’s foundation, SHE 101, offers mentorship programmes and character development and promotes Miss Inspire SA.

“On February 24, we hosted a mentorship programme with the theme ‘self-reflection’ presented by Miss Inspire SA,” said Mabontle.

Mabontle said she first helped a charity organisation called Life4U Foundation in Moriting, where they ran a feeding scheme for the needy. Currently, she has been working with a home called Ubuhle Bezwe in Isivana, which deals with children who have HIV and other conditions.

“Collecting sanitary pads and books for them to read and raising funds were some of the things I did for the home. It was all made possible through social media, church funds and family donations.

“If I could win the prize, my wish would be to give to orphanages that have started serving the community,” added Mabiletsa.

Archbishop Elizabeth said Mabontle has been a good child growing up as she loves school and church.

“She has to succeed and get her qualifications. I hope she wins the Miss Inspire SA pageant.

“To all the children out there, learn to listen to your parents and teachers at school and choose the right friends,” said Archbishop Elizabeth.

About the unemployment rate in South Africa, Mabontle said she would initiate a voluntary programme for the youth to acquire skills. She handed over plastic bottles to Emma Molora, which she collected on Emma’s behalf. Emma, who collects bottles for recycling, said Mabontle always helps her to collect, so she comes and gets them from her.

Mabontle said Miss Inspire SA, which is her first pageant, does not focus on your looks, but it aims to create goodwill ambassadors.

“My competitors are very hard working, but I believe in myself and I believe I stand out. That is why I will win. I have learnt and grown so much from the pageant.

“Winning the pageant, I would explore more opportunities, reaching Miss SA or Miss World and recruit more girls through SHE 101.

“Recently, an organisation called Girl Power reached out and wants to work with me and explore more opportunities. After my qualification in credit management, I would also like to study industrial psychology,” added Mabontle.

To vote for Mabontle Mabiletsa, SMS “win q11” to 47439. Vote as many times as you like. Free SMSs do not apply.