Miss Ethekwini promotes health and fitness with squat challenge

Driven by dedication and passion, the sky is the limit for Dr Nompumelelo “Lelo” Nkosi from Mandeni.

The medical doctor, model, emcee and social activist is well known for her strong, winning personality, work-ethic, humility and energetic positive spirit.

She is the founder of GirlzNetwork, a social responsibility programme aimed at grooming young girls, encouraging them to become the change they want to see with the ultimate aim of decreasing teenage pregnancy and tackling social issues.

“We do motivational talks and have pad drives that help girls to avoid missing school.”

She is also a brand ambassador for several companies, including a beauty and hair company based in Dubai.

Growing up in Mandeni she has from the age of five been involved in talent and beauty pageants, and community outreach programmes while excelling at school.

She is currently Miss Ethekwini.

Unfazed by lockdown, she has used the opportunity to launch the fun ‘SA lockdown squat club’.

“I started the campaign using social media to tackle squats, because that’s what I have been struggling with at gym. So I started posting videos and people responded and joined me. The whole aim is to challenge people to work on something that they are struggling with – be it cooking, cleaning or washing,” said Nkosi.

“Being a doctor during this Covid-19 pandemic is very scary and challenging. At first I actually thought it was just another infection like many others, and it would pass. But this has not been the case.”

She was worried that people would expect her to know everything about the pandemic, but she said people had been understanding of her role in the community and grateful for her being a doctor.

“I honestly feel very empowered knowing I am part of change during this challenging pandemic. I think it is very important for us to equip ourselves with knowledge and teach the community. As scary as it is, what is important is that we all play our part.”

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