Potchefstroom Academy is thrilled to introduce the official Miss Potch Academy 2025 finalists.
These students were selected for their passion, creativity, authenticity, and drive, and now, they’re stepping into the spotlight.
These young women represent the heart of Potchefstroom Academy. Winners will be announced at the Miss Potch Academy event on July 26.
Cast your vote by liking your favourite photo on the Potchefstroom Academy’s Facebook page.
DARCELL COLLINS: I am a passionate and enthusiastic person who loves to learn, meet new people, and grow through new experiences. I believe in staying positive and giving my best in everything I do.
JODIE KNOESEN: I’m 20 years old. I love the colour blue and my 7 dogs. My home is where my friends are. I’m also a very bubbly/talkative person who loves being around people.
PHOLOSHO LESHILO: I am a proud firstborn daughter and devoted older sister to two incredible younger brothers. Rooted in faith and guided by grace, I live each day with purpose, placing God at the center of all I do. I believe in the power of positivity and carry a radiant energy that uplifts those around me. I live by the words, “You are stronger than you seem, braver than you believe, and smarter than you think,” a daily reminder that keeps my head held high and my spirit unshaken. My journey is one of resilience, warmth, and a deep desire to inspire others through both presence and purpose.
ABIGAIL NEL: I love animals and spending time with my family. I love helping other people. Being successful in life and helping others achieve their goals is important to me.
ZELNÉ BARTLEMAN: I’m from the small town of Marquard and grew up as an only child, which taught me to enjoy my own company—whether I’m relaxing with coffee or baking something sweet.
I love helping people feel confident and beautiful, whether through a simple cut or a full transformation.
SHANNON LEE DE SOUSA: I am proud to say I am Portuguese, but I have always stayed in south African.
RACHEL PAIS: I consider myself a calm, focused, and creative individual with a positive outlook.
LARAINE THERON: Ek bly op n plaas tussen Vrede en Warden, en is die oudste van drie kinders.
Ek is trots op wie ek is en glo dat my waarde nie bepaal word deur ander mense nie, maar deur my karakter en God.
Ek is altyd eerlik en opreg, en iemand wat nie voorgee om perfek of selfversekerd te wees nie. Ek is ‘n omgee persoon met n fyn aanvoeling vir emosies. Ek kyk met n fyn oog na die klein dinge, waardeer die rustigheid met eenvoud en leef met respek teenoor ander.
Ek is stil rondom mense wat ek nie baie goed ken nie, maar die mense wat my goed ken, sal weet dat ek my punt kan stel en dat ek van eerlikheid hou. Ek sal altyd ook die snaakse sy van dinge raak sien, want hoekom nie? Die lewe is wat jy daarvan maak en ek kies hoop, vreugde en geluk.
ZANDRI JACOBS: I am a second-year student at Potchefstroom Academy who comes from a small town in KwaZulu-Natal.
MUSA MKHONZA: I am a vivacious, warm-hearted soul, brimming with outgoing joy, sincere empathy, and the beauty of being deeply and unconditionally loved by God.
KARA ROUX: Hi, my name is Kara. I’m currently studying Photography, which allows me to express my creativity and capture the beauty in everyday moments.
SUNÉ UPTON: My name is Suné Upton, and I am a first-year student at Potchefstroom Academy. I am passionate about health, beauty, and helping others feel confident in their own skin.
MEGHAN JOUBERT: I’m 21 years old and come from Krugersdorp, Gauteng. A quote I live by is that your value doesn’t decrease just because of someone’s inability to see your worth. I believe in leading with honesty and kindness to make a difference in every person’s life that I come across. When I’m not studying, I love baking, riding my motorbike, listening to music, and doing makeup.
LISA VAN DER MERWE: I have a deep love for animals and nature, where I find both peace and inspiration. Creativity flows through me—expressed in art, music, and a strong foundation of faith that guides my journey. I’m passionate about tourism and history, drawn to the stories each place holds and how they shape us. Above all, I have a sincere desire to support others on their path to healing, offering kindness, empathy, and encouragement along the way.
JADA-SHAE VD HEEVER: My name is Jada-Shae as a child I moved around a lot, and because of that, I’ve had to learn how to be my own best friend and how to love myself. That has made me very self-sufficient. This taught me values that I hold dear to my heart. I believe women are capable of incredible things when they stand together and uplift each other.
INÉ FISHER: I’m Iné, a driven person who loves connecting with others and creating beautiful moments out of the everyday. I’m passionate about growth, kindness, and learning through every experience.
IMKE PITOUT: I’m excited to be part of this journey with you all! A little about myself, I’m someone who enjoys learning, growing, and connecting with others.
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I am a passionate journalist and photographer. I have been a photographer for 15 years and a journalist for 4 years. I recently started working for Potchefstroom Herald. I love writing people's stories and showcasing their inner beauty through photography.
