Sandton teen urges Gauteng to vote for her in the Teen Universe SA pageant today

Eighteen-year-old Iman Sekoto, from Sandton, is not just chasing a crown; she’s on a mission to inspire a generation.

As a Teen Universe South Africa 2025 finalist representing Gauteng, this confident young woman is proving that true beauty radiates from within, driven by purpose, passion, and heart.

On December 14, all eyes will turn to Vodacom World in Midrand, where South Africa’s brightest young women will take the stage for the Teen Universe South Africa grand finale, but for Iman, this moment is not just about glamour; it’s about growth, empowerment, and giving back. “It feels super exciting to know that I’ve made it this far and have the privilege of representing Gauteng. I’m truly honoured and looking forward to the journey and the opportunities that lie ahead.”

Iman’s story began long before the pageant lights. Growing up in Morningside, she was drawn to the performing arts from an early age. The stage was where she felt most alive.

Read more: Dining with Miss Universe 2019 in Sandton

When she discovered Teen Universe South Africa, Iman instantly felt a connection to its values of sisterhood, women’s empowerment, and mental empowerment. “Those values align perfectly with who I am. Teen Universe isn’t just about beauty; it’s about using your voice to uplift others and create real change.”

Iman’s advocacy project, Glow from Within, embodies everything she stands for. Focused on mental empowerment among youth, her initiative promotes positive thinking and self-affirmation as tools for personal growth. “Research shows that practicing positive self-affirmations, for just two minutes a day, improves problem-solving and optimism. That’s why I’m passionate about helping young people build their confidence and live in harmony with their purpose.”

As part of her advocacy, Iman adopted Emandleni Creche in Meadowlands, Soweto, a local preschool she supports through both emotional and physical upliftment. “We’re not only fixing the school’s environment to make it more conducive to learning; we’re teaching the children positive affirmations to build their self-belief.”

Balancing school, modelling, volunteering, and advocacy might seem overwhelming, but Iman has mastered the art of focus. “My passion fuels my motivation. I dedicate specific times to schoolwork, my modelling, and church volunteering. Productivity isn’t about doing everything at once; it’s about being intentional with your time.”

Also read: Sandton teen sets sights on Teen Universe SA crown

Behind every confident queen is a mentor who helps her shine. For Iman, that guiding light is her coach, Cathy Heaton. “Cathy has transformed me from a budding model into a queen in less than two years. She sees greatness in everyone and nurtures it with love and precision. That’s what true leadership looks like.”

Winning the national title would mean representing South Africa at Teen Universe International 2026 in Nicaragua. A milestone year marking the 15th anniversary of the international competition.

Iman is now calling on the Sandton community, as well as Gauteng at large, to support her journey through votes.

To vote, supporters can create the Teen Universe Beneficiary on their banking app, select a voting amount as indicated on her poster, and use: Iman Sekoto, as the reference.

“It would be an honour beyond words to represent South Africa. It means carrying my story, my community, and my purpose to a global stage, showcasing the beauty and diversity of our nation. Bringing the crown home would be history-making.”

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