Miss Ballito 2021 looks forward to her community role with Rotary [Watch]

Miss Ballito 2021 dazzled her way to victory at the crowning evening at the weekend.

The judges had no hesitation awarding the winner’s sash to the bubbly 20-year-old Stanger-born Cikizwa Vilakazi, who appeared to be having the time of her life.

Ask any past Miss Ballito and they will tell you that the contest is not just a beauty pageant, but an opportunity to become an ambassador for the community, empowering young women to make a difference in the lives of others less fortunate.

Since 2011 the pageant run through the Rotary Club of Zimbali has raised over R700 000 for charity. Between 50 to 60 percent of the funds raised go to Rotary.

Walking through the doors last Friday, one could already tell the night was set to be a fabulous affair with finalists excited to impress the judges and secure the crown.

The 10 finalists in this year’s contest paraded before the crowd at Relax Inn in Chaka’s Rock, also answering questions from the panel of judges.

Cikizwa, a second year film directing and sound design student, said being crowned Miss Ballito will now give her the opportunity to implement the next phase of her charity project, an all round educational and entrepreneurship programme.

“I have already started with the pre-school phase where I renovated a pre-school in Stanger. Now I will look at issues which affect primary school pupils,” she said.

Some of the projects Vilakazi has her eyes set on include starting drives for school shoes, stationery and sanitary pads.

Vilakazi said that simply saying she was over the moon at winning the pageant would be an understatement. “I am in an entire other galaxy. I am so excited to start my new journey and I really hope to make a difference in the North Coast community.”

Being part of the contest opened many doors for her.

“Above this, I will also be able to continue to grow as an individual while also helping the community which raised me and helped me grow as a person.”

First princess was Julie Blevin of Salt Rock, followed by Megan Lane of Ballito.

Event organisers Heidie Smith and Karen Landman said they were extremely proud of all contestants and looked forward to working together in the year ahead.

“May you be an inspiration to our youth and together with Zimbali Rotary help make a difference in our community. We are super proud of you all and are excited about the year ahead.”

Watch the final performance on our Facebook page.

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