Difateng’s Mabontle (19) was a finalist in Miss Inspire SA

Tembisa-born Mabontle Mabiletsa was a finalist in the Miss Inspire SA competition at Lakeside Mall in Benoni on March 30.

The 19-year-old is a second-year credit management student at the Tshwane University of Technology.

Mabontle grew up in a Christian family in Difateng Section, Tembisa. She attended Mooifontein Primary School and Norkem Park High School.

She says it has been awesome growing up in Difateng and her family has been supportive, especially her granny, Archbishop Elizabeth Mabiletsa.

Mabontle used to work for a locally-based charity organisation, Life4U Foundation which runs a feeding scheme for the needy. Presently she works for Ubuhle Bezwe, a locally based home which takes care of children living with HIV and other conditions.

“Collecting sanitary pads and books and raising funds were some of the things I did. This was made possible through using social media, church and family donations.

Mabontle’s foundation, SHE 101, offers mentorship programmes and character development.

“In the future, I hope to win prize money part of which I will donate to orphanages.

“I have decided to continue with community engagements when I have the time, but my main focus is on my studies.

“My granny is my biggest cheerleader, an entire support system, and is proud of me, even though I was not a winner,” added Mabontle.

Mabiletsa is proud of her granddaughter, Mabontle, and believes she is a good child who loves school and church. She wishes her success.

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

Concerned about the high level of unemployment in South Africa, Mabontle said she plans to initiate a programme that will enable the youth to acquire skills.

Mabontle said Miss Inspire SA’s aim is not focused on looks, but more on creating goodwill ambassadors.

“My co-competitors are hardworking and we have built sisterhood relationship. I have learnt and grown a lot from participating in the pageant.

“Pageant founder MmaLitshani Tshuma says making it to as far as finalists makes us winners already.

“After my qualification in credit management, I would like to pursue further studies in industrial psychology,” added Mabontle.