At just five years old, De Deur Primary School pupil Oritonda Mabaso is proving that age is no barrier to success. The young star recently traded her school books for the runway, making a massive impact at the inaugural South African Kids Fashion Week held in December.

Mabaso has been making strides in the modeling world, improving with every pageant since launching her career in June 2025.

Despite her young age, this is far from Mabaso’s first taste of success. In 2025, she took home the Model of the Year title in the little category at the Ace Models National Conference (AMNC), held at the Emerald Resort & Casino. Speaking to Ster North, her mother, Bridgette Mavhunga, said this was Mabaso’s very first runway show.

“She impressed audiences with her confidence and elegance. She modelled designs from both local and international fashion houses, including Payzley, Macreasky, Saint Ethos, Salty Red, and Exquisite.”

Mavhunga believes that her daughter’s journey from the dusty streets of the Vaal to a national stage serves as a powerful reminder to other young kids that dreams do come true.

Mabaso’s achievement has brought pride to family, school, and community, and marks the beginning of what promises to be a bright future in modelling.