Displaying remarkable maturity, local teenager Mieke Janse van Rensburg, 14, is preparing to take on one of the biggest moments of her young life; competing as a finalist in the Miss Teen South Africa pageant.

The national competition will be held on October 4 at Medley House in Gauteng, where Mieke will stand shoulder-to-shoulder with other young hopefuls from across the country.

ALSO READ: Help Mieke become your next Miss Teen South Africa 2025

Despite her shy smile, Mieke exudes a quiet confidence.

Since starting her modelling journey in 2022 under the guidance of her coach and mentor, Sharné Dheochand, she has already earned titles such as Miss Winterfees, Miss Wonderwoman, and Miss Huttenpark. Now, she has her sights set on the national stage.

“I want to compete worldwide,” she said, explaining that Miss Teen SA is her stepping stone toward even bigger dreams.

Mieke says her Christian faith is what keeps her grounded and motivated.

“It is the devil that makes someone believe they are not good enough,” she explained firmly, adding that she chooses instead to focus on her God-given potential.

“As having witnessed children being bullied, Mieke believes Miss Teen South Africa is the ideal vehicle to put the word out and advocate for these victims. As a learner at Ferrum High School, she speaks highly of all the support she receives from her teachers and peers. Asked what it means to be a young woman in Newcastle, Mieke answered with a smile, “that it is very pleasant, and why would it not be?”

“I have had an opportunity to collaborate with major local brands and businesses and I truly believe that I can be a role model for other young girls. You need to be true to yourself, no matter what social media says.”

Convinced of her natural leadership abilities, it is not surprising that she is part of Ferrum’s grade-8 RCL committee. “Leadership should be practiced in everyday life, whether it is in me being a Christian or on the stage while I am modelling.”

From food drives to lending her voice in Ferrum High’s all-girl choir, Mieke is already making her mark in her community. Excited by what lies ahead, she added that another plan close to her heart is to provide a matric farewell dress to a deserving girl.

“I want someone else to know what it feels like to be a princess.”

Concluding, Mieke said that if she were to win the Miss Teen South Africa crown, she would use the platform to make a difference.

“I would go crazy on social media to spread awareness about abuse; be it mentally or physically.”

Winning the title of Miss Teen South Africa 2025 would be an honour for any teenager. Why should Mieke be deserving of the title?

Humbly, she replied: “I want the title of Miss Teen South Africa because I have the values of leadership and I know I can raise people up with me along the way.”

ALSO READ: Miss Wonder Woman runway, a platform for change

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