Kempton Park Hoërskool crowns Mr and Miss Kempie 2025
The star-studded event doubled as a fundraiser for Project Harmonie, the school’s lunchbox initiative supporting learners in need.
Kempton Park Hoërskool recently hosted one of its most memorable evenings, celebrating the crowning of Mr and Miss Kempie after a six-year hiatus.
Parents, learners, teachers, and guests were left starstruck, witnessing a show that showcased talent, confidence, and community spirit.
The event also doubled as a fundraiser for Project Harmonie, the school’s lunchbox initiative, which provides meals for learners in need. Half of the funds raised during the evening were dedicated to supporting this vital project.
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Event organisers Natascha Maritz and Lydia Swarts run Project Harmonie, feeding between 70 and 85 learners daily.
“Some learners are too shy to collect food, but we ensure their privacy is respected. Parents, learners, and local companies have been incredibly supportive, donating food or money to help us provide nutritious meals,” Maritz explained.
The competition started with 32 finalists, 16 boys and 16 girls, from which Quan Viljoen and Brigette Swiegers emerged victorious, earning the titles of Mr and Miss Kempie 2025.
Photo credit: Paul de Costa and Allen Henwood.
For Quan Viljoen, the journey was about more than winning. “Initially, I only entered for fun, but it became about overcoming self-doubt and believing in myself. I wanted to inspire others to step out of their comfort zones,” he shared.
Similarly, Brigette Swiegers reflected on her growth.
“This experience helped me face my insecurities. The confidence training and support from our organisers taught me to believe in myself and push beyond limits.”
The show featured a professional panel of judges, including Cindy Brits, Jaco De Bruyn, Lechar Knezovich, Hannes van der Walt, Casey de Witt, and Ray Brodie.
The judges assessed finalists not only on appearance but also on ambition, confidence, and character, ensuring the winners could serve as true role models.
Almost every aspect of the event, from sound, staging, and lighting to décor, makeup, hair, and prizes, was sponsored by local businesses and community members, highlighting the strong support from the Kempton Park community.
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Organisers noted the life-changing impact of the event. “Watching these learners grow in confidence and stage presence has been incredible. By the last practice, we were in tears because we knew this experience would stay with them forever,” Swarts said.
The School Governing Body chairperson, Martin Bester, praised the initiative.
“This event showcased our learners’ talent, built their self-confidence, and united our community. It proves that with imagination and support, anything is possible.”
Cindy Brits, one of the judges who also crowned Miss Kempie, added, “It was inspiring to see how much the learners developed from the announcement of the finalists to the final night. Miss Kempie truly owned the stage and was a deserving winner.”
Both winners received a fully paid 2025 Matric Farewell, including attire, makeup, hair, photos, and cash prizes, ensuring a memorable celebration of their achievement.
Former Mr Kempie 2000, Jaco De Bruyn, shared advice for the winners. “Use this title to inspire others, help those struggling with insecurities, and show that anything is possible with determination. Not winning isn’t failure. It’s an opportunity to learn and grow.”
