Under the banner of their titles, Brittany Uys, Mrs Mpumalanga Ambassador 2025, and Verina Gerber, Mrs Mpumalanga Charity 2025, are eager to make a difference this year.

Uys and Gerber earned their crowns during the 2025 Mrs Mpumalanga pageant and have been hard at work finding the best ways to go about servicing charitable causes during their respective reigns.

Originally from Tzaneen, Gerber has lived in Mbombela since 2023. She is a mother of five, including two biological children and three step-children from her husband, Francois. As Mrs Mpumalanga Charity she aims to focus her initiatives on the act of giving.

“Giving is not only about material things. Sometimes, when we are unable to give financially, we can give our time, our compassion, and our support. I truly believe that we receive more joy from giving than from receiving,” Gerber said. “One of my main goals is to support those in need and those living on the streets. I know there are many opinions about people who are poor or homeless, but the truth is that we do not know their stories.”

Gerber has called on members of the community to assist by donating old clothes, maize meal, or any items that can help someone get through another day.

“Another focus close to my heart is hospice care, where creating awareness and community involvement can bring dignity, comfort and love to those who can no longer help themselves. Together, we can ensure that these organisations receive the support they need to continue their vital work.”

Her message is simple: Pay it forward. “I invite everyone to walk this journey with us as we move into 2026 – together, we can make a real difference,” she concluded.

Uys is a native of Gqeberha and made Mbombela her home in 2022. She and her husband, Michael, have four children.

“I aim to use my platform to advocate against addiction among our youth, promote women’s empowerment, and actively work toward restoring dignity within our communities wherever the need arises,” Uys said.

“I am deeply passionate about the arts, as well as health and wellness, and believe that true empowerment begins with holistic mental and emotional well-being.” In addition to planned awareness talks and arts-based activities at local schools alongside John Mdluli, Sanca and Lifeline, she will host two major fundraisers this year.

The first will be a Bingo evening, aimed at raising funds to assist a local pre-school with improving their scholar transport. The second fundraiser remains under wraps for now, but according to Uys, it promises to be a high-end women’s empowerment event, bringing together inspiring women from across Africa.

“Throughout the year, Mrs Mpumalanga title holders and finalists will continue to host and support GRIP gatherings, where we will collect pamper packs, clothing and comfort teddies for survivors of gender-based violence,” Uys said.

“Another important project for the year ahead is Katoen, where we aim to install a perimeter fence around their camp to improve safety and security. We are open and grateful for any material donations.”

Additionally, Uys will be collaborating throughout the year with Roots & Shoots, in partnership with the Jane Goodall Institute. “This initiative supports a Scouts programme for rural schools, teaching children about seeds, plants, sustainability and the importance of nature, while empowering them with the skills to grow, nurture and thrive from what they cultivate,” Uys concluded.

If you would like to get involved in any of these projects, Gerber can be reached on verinafox82@gmail.com and Uys on brittany.uys92@gmail.com.