Mayibuye-based model and beauty pageant organiser Lusanda Mapundu is continuing to create opportunities for township girls through the Miss Face of Beauty Tembisa pageant, which returns this year for its third edition.

The pageant has steadily grown into a platform aimed at empowering young women from Mayibuye, Tembisa, and surrounding areas, many of whom come from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Mapundu (21) said the passion and dedication she sees among aspiring local models motivates her to host the pageant annually. “Having so many young girls who are eager to model and better themselves really pushes me to continue with this initiative.

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“Most of them come from disadvantaged backgrounds, so the pageant gives them a window of opportunity to grow, not only as models, but as better human beings.”

Mapundu explained that this year’s focus goes beyond beauty, with a strong emphasis on confidence-building, leadership, and communication skills.

“This year’s vision is to help our contestants grow, be confident, outspoken, and articulate, especially in public speaking. When a young girl learns to use her voice to raise awareness, she also begins to understand politics and civic participation. The stage becomes a space of empowerment where she learns how to lead communities, not just charm judges.”

She added that pageants can also open economic doors, offering opportunities, such as mentorship, networking, and, in some cases, scholarships.

Despite its growth, the pageant continues to face challenges, particularly in securing sponsorship and support. “Like many new pageants, we struggle to get sponsors. So far, I haven’t received support from sponsors or local organisations, but I remain hopeful and pray that we will find partners who believe in what we are trying to build.”

Local young girls interested in participating are encouraged to register, as the pageant will host its sash ceremony in mid-March, officially launching the journey towards the 2026 finals.

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Mapundu, who is herself an accomplished model with multiple podium finishes, said she has decided to take a break from competing to focus fully on mentoring young talent in her community.

“I’ve chosen to pause my modelling career to uplift and mentor our future Miss SAs and Miss Universe contestants. This work needs all your time and energy.

People should never undermine local pageants. I am where I am today because of local pageants. They gave me the knowledge, confidence, and power I now use to mentor children.”

So far, 12 models have registered, and more young girls are encouraged to join. Organisers are also appealing to potential sponsors to help make the 2026 pageant bigger and more memorable.

Young women interested in entering the pageant, or businesses and organisations willing to sponsor, can contact Mapundu via WhatsApp at 068 117 8277, Facebook at Miss Face of Beauty, or TikTok at Miss Face Of Beauty Tembisa.

To vote for contestants, visit: https://pageantvote.co/pageants/150.

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