Boitumelo Tefu (14) achieved her goals when she won the Miss Teen Universe title and Super Model of the World during the World League of Beauty and Fashion competition.
Tefu left for Kusadasi in Turkey on May 4 and had the opportunity to practice rehearsals, organise her outfits, spend some time with the competition judges, and explore Turkey a bit.
She won the two prestigious titles during the final crowning ceremony on May 14 and returned to South Africa on May 16.
When she returned to her school, Highveld Park High School, on May 19, she was greeted by all the learners and teachers welcoming her during a welcoming home ceremony at the school.
Tefu said her whole experience in Turkey was a highlight, and she cannot single out only a few things. She enjoyed visiting the city of Ephesus and the statue of the Virgin Mary.
Tefu is proud of herself for winning these titles, and she is excited to carry them and present them with honour. She has always had a passion for children and wants to get involved in projects, such as helping a children’s home in Kinross.
“I want children to feel special and to have everything they need,” said Tefu.
The competition in Turkey was only Tefu’s second big modelling competition, and she only started modelling about a year ago.
Although she enjoyed dressing up from an early age, she only joined the All Stars SA Modelling Academy last year.
She believes she got so far because of her hard work and dedication. To qualify for Turkey, she won the Miss Petite Teen Mpumalanga South Africa 2025 title at the Events and Pageants South Africa event earlier this year.
“All Stars prepared me to win this title, and I have grown a lot in my modelling career since joining them,” said Tefu.
Apart from modelling, Tefu also plays netball for her school’s team. She used to do public speaking and reading, but lately, she has focused more on her modelling work.
In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her four-year-old nephew and family or watching science movies or documentaries.
Tefu firmly stood her ground in Turkey when others expected her to wear earrings for the competition she refused.
“It is against my religious beliefs to wear earrings. I won the competition without wearing earrings; I took part by wearing two beautiful dresses and a good mindset,” said Tefu, referring to Leviticus 19:28 in the Bible.
Tefu wants to pursue a career as a full-time model. However, she also has a plan B, which is to study psychology.
