SHARPEVILLE. – Tlhaho Ya Mo Africa Ambassador, Awethu Makuka, will be representing South Africa in America in July.

Hailing from Tshepiso Phase 5 in Sharpeville and currently a student at Pride Junior High in Vereeniging, the 15-year-old has a remarkable journey. It’s reported that she used to observe Grade 7 learners rehearsing at her school until one day she decided to join the school’s pageant.

From that moment, she developed a deep passion for it.

Makuka was discovered by America Talent/America Pageant last year at a Sedibeng Pageant after winning the Miss Personality section, which opened doors for her to the international stage. Lorence Lethebe, Director of The Creatives, a local Non-Profit Organisation overseeing Makuka’s journey, emphasised the need for substantial support from the Vaal community and South Africa as a whole.

The estimated budget required is R 60 000 multiplied by two.

“Since she is still a minor, she must be accompanied by one of her parents, which will incur a total cost of R 120 000 to cover expenses such as accommodation, airline tickets, travel insurance, tours, and transportation from the hotel to the airport.”

Lethebe further mentioned that Makuka’s church has already donated R 10 500, but more financial assistance is required from anyone willing to contribute.

“On Saturdays, Awethu cooks food, free of charge, for street kids in Vereeniging. This is one of the projects she is fully committed to, along with distributing sanitary towels to young girls in different townships every Sunday. Donations and helping hands on these projects are welcome to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need.”

Makuka’s mother, Ntombifikile Mofokeng, expressed her happiness with her child’s chosen path of helping the less fortunate.

“We appeal to the community to assist us in making this trip a reality. Even the smallest donation will go a long way.”

For further details, please contact 078 630 3522 (Mom) or 079 069 5891 (Director).