MBOMBELA – All eyes will be glued on television screens with a glimmer of hope when our very own Miss Mpumalanga 2011, Mpumi Lephoko-Sihlangu will be strutting her stuff on the catwalk vying for the coveted Miss Fashion TV crown in Cyprus on Sunday.

She is the only African contestant among a bevy of other beauties and supermodels – she’ll be carrying the hope of the whole continent.

In what can be described as a good farewell for Mpumi, Mzimari Productions hosted a dinner at the exclusive Greek Kouzina restaurant in Sonpark last Thursday.

Accurately described as “Indoni Yamanzi” motivational speaker, Ms Sasa Molobela, said her natural disposition, which is tall and dark, resembled a true African beauty in the making.

“In essence,” she said, “is for you Mpumi to truly represent the province, your family and all your friends.

“All of this couldn’t have been possible had you not done your very best through-out your career thus far.

You are so unique with your height, following the example set by the likes of Naomi Campbell and other black supermodels, but a new gem has emerged from the dusty streets of Pienaar.

“As you fly out of Africa, sing Sipho Makhabane’s song, “The Devil is a Liar,” and the world is on your oyster as we speak.

Go out there and bring back the crown, it is all yours for the taking,” said Molobela.

Current queen, Zamanene Nene said: “Mpumi you have continued to change the lives of young women in our province.

But now through your humbleness and dedication, you are going to represent Africa in Europe,” she said.

“Remember one thing for certain, that in 2011 when you won the crown, your granny sang and danced for you and she will continue singing the song as you fly off to clinch the crown once again on behalf of our family, your friends, the province and the country as a whole,” she said.

“Tonight we are celebrating a journey of success. She won our crown at its humble beginnings.

She was determined to be the right role model. She has continued striving to reach the very highest in further developing her career.

“I believe in you. When I see you, it is not an ordinary girl, but one that is here to take on the world.

We are celebrating you because we love you so much. You have originality that is rare.

“You developed this pageant and it has grown because of you. Go well, because I believe in you, the province believes in you and the country also,” she ended.

Mpumi responded by saying, “Take pics with me now as when I come back, you will have to pay me.

Thanks to my mother, who is my best friend. She is my free security and my uncles and all family. It means a lot
to me.

“I come a long way with Mzimari Productions. Went through a lot of challenges, but have been allowed to grow in stature.

What I’m prepared to promise you is that I will be in the top three and bring back the crown to Africa,” she concluded.

The ceremony closed with a toast as the cold breeze descended.

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