For young women in Mayibuye, Tembisa, and the surroundings, the Miss Face of Beauty Tembisa pageant is opening doors that once seemed out of reach.
Founder and model Lusanda Mapundu is back with the third edition, giving township girls a platform to develop skills that extend far beyond the runway.
Founded just two years ago, the pageant has steadily become a launchpad for talent, mentorship, and personal growth. “Many of our contestants come from challenging backgrounds. This pageant gives them opportunities to grow, network, and learn life skills that can change the trajectory of their future.”
Read more: Homegrown pageant queen continues to uplift Mayibuye and Tembisa youth models
Mapundu 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. 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 and 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 mentorships, networking, and, in some cases, scholarships.
Despite its growth, the pageant continues to face challenges, particularly in securing sponsorship and support. “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.
Also read: Mayibuye beauty queen eyes bigger 2026
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 Lusanda Mapundu via WhatsApp on 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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