Simbithi resident Andile Pieterson takes step up in Mrs SA title race

Simbithi resident Andile Pieterson is gunning for this year’s Mrs SA crown.

And she is a step closer to reaching her dream after being announced as a semi-finalist at the beginning of March.

She attended a self-development workshop held at Emperor’s Palace to prepare her for the road ahead.

Pieterson, an optometrist by profession, said she aims to inspire ordinary women.

She wants young women from disadvantaged backgrounds to know that nothing, especially getting married or being a mother, should stop them from following their dreams.

“I am super excited about the journey I have begun. I hope to inspire young girls in my community, my province as well as across the country to pursue their goals,” said the mother of two.

The 33-year-old said the pageant was created for married women who would ordinarily not have such a platform to compete and become ambassadors for South Africa.

“Throughout the journey women discover themselves again and learn they are never too old to follow their dreams and become voices of change. That is all I want to promote,” said Pieterson.

Born in Scottburh with an identical twin sister, she grew up in Umkomaas’ Magabheni township and was raised by a single mother of 4 children.

“My other two siblings are also twins. My twin sister and I attended UKZN and graduated with bachelor degrees in optometry.”

She faces the tough task of managing her two 2 private practices in Durban and in Port Shepstone, but her strong support structure enables her to balance her busy life.

“My husband often pitches in doing homework with the kids and other duties at home, while my family always help where they can.

“I am a hard worker, try to excel in everything I do, and I do it with passion.”

Through the Mrs SA pageant she hopes to expand the work of her and her twin sister’s foundation, TwinsOnEyes. The foundation visits underprivileged schools to raise awareness on eye health and eye conditions and also gives free spectacles to children in need.

To vote for Andile, SMS Andile Pieterson to 47587, vote via Facebook (like Mrs South Africa page and then like her picture) or Instagram (follow @mrs_South_Africa and like Andile’s picture).

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