Two young girls from Potchefstroom are preparing to take a confident step onto a national stage, not only to showcase their talent but also to use their voices for causes close to their hearts.

Seventeen-year-old Tumisho Sebolayi and nine-year-old Katleho Motswasele have both been selected as semi-finalists in the Miss Township South Africa pageant. Tumisho will compete in the Miss Township South Africa Teen category, while Katleho will represent the city as a semi-finalist in the Little Miss Township South Africa division.

The prestigious finals will take place in Pretoria on June 6, where contestants from across the country will compete for the titles.

Although the spotlight will be on fashion and confidence, both girls are using the opportunity to advocate for meaningful causes. Tumisho’s advocacy focuses on anti-bullying and promoting hygiene awareness, while Katleho is passionate about standing up against bullying.

Their modelling journey only began last year when they joined ACE Models in Potchefstroom. What started as a new experience quickly became a platform for growth.

The girls say they entered the competition to challenge themselves, build confidence, and step out of their comfort zones. This will be their first major modelling competition, and their modelling school encourages learners to participate in events that help them develop both personally and professionally.

Behind the scenes, there is also a strong friendship linking the families. The girls’ mothers are friends, and modelling runs in Tumisho’s family. Her mother, Mary, was also a model in her younger years.

Mary says she is incredibly proud of the progress both girls have made.

“We are very happy and excited. The girls have worked very hard, and we are proud of how far they have come,” she said.

For Katleho, modelling has become more than just a hobby. According to her mother, Beauty, it has created a space where her daughter feels confident and safe.

“Modelling is her safe space,” she said. “If it wasn’t for this journey, I might never have realised that she was being bullied at school.”

Both girls have already started giving back to their community by donating clothes and hygiene products as part of their advocacy work and they plan to continue their charity initiatives even after the competition ends.

Tumisho is a learner at Sarafina Secondary School, while Katleho attends Tshupane Primary School.

As they prepare for the national stage, the girls are calling on the community for support. Donations of clothing and hygiene products are welcomed to help them continue their outreach work. To make donations, please contact Mary or Beauty on 060 560 8953 or 076 826 9551.

Residents can also support them by voting. Voting closes on June 2.

Here is how to vote:

Watch the videos here: