Miss Earth South Africa 2024 Jessica Nel to embark on a global environmental mission
For over two decades, Miss Earth South Africa has been more than a beauty pageant, it's a movement inspiring young women to become leaders in sustainability.
Johannesburg’s own Jessica Nel, recently crowned Miss Earth South Africa 2024, is gearing up to represent South Africa on the international stage in Manila, Philippines.
As she heads to one of the world’s top four beauty pageants, Nel carries not just the hopes of a nation but also a mission of environmental advocacy that lies at the heart of the Miss Earth South Africa programme.
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The Miss Earth South Africa initiative, now in its 21st year, is much more than a beauty pageant.
It’s a leadership and empowerment programme designed to inspire young women to become advocates for sustainable development and environmental awareness.
Over the past two decades, the programme has significantly impacted communities nationwide, promoting sustainability and nurturing a generation of green leaders.
Nel exemplifies this vision. By day, she works as a graphic designer and social media manager, balancing her professional career with her passion for sustainable fashion, environmental advocacy and a commitment to protecting the planet.
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Her impressive accomplishments include earning her national colours for choir, excelling as a drum majorette, and holding an advanced diving licence.
Her adventurous spirit finds expression in hobbies such as horse riding, skydiving, and deep-sea diving.
Ella Bella Leite, the co-director of Miss Earth South Africa, emphasised the programme’s ongoing mission to inspire a new generation of environmental stewards.
“We are trying to plant seeds in the minds of young children and regular citizens who want to do more for the environment; they are just not sure how. We say, ‘Start with putting on your green glasses,’ look around you for ways to reduce, reuse, recycle, rethink, and respect Mother Nature.”
Catherine Constantinides, the co-director of Miss Earth South Africa, echoed these sentiments, emphasising the programme’s role in shaping future leaders.
“For over two decades, Miss Earth has been a global platform that showcases not only the graceful elegance of its finalists but also their dedication to making their country a greener, more sustainable place. This unique programme encourages participants to actively engage in community activities that address critical environmental issues, thereby fostering a sense of responsibility and sustainability.”
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