BOPHELONG.- Karabo Siyamthanda Makoanyane, a 20-year-old pageant model and founder of the Ahang Sechaba Community Organisation from Muvhango, Bophelong, was recently crowned Miss Excellency South Africa.

Makoanyane is also a director of local pageants around the Vaal, and an advocate for Youth Empowerment through Skills Development and Early Childhood Development.

“I began my pageant journey in 2021, stepping onto both local and national stages, each competition shaping me into the queen I am today,” she told Sedibeng Ster.

On September 13, she proudly represented the Vaal on what she said was the biggest stage she had ever been on, competing alongside contestants from different provinces across South Africa.

That night, she returned home with the Miss Excellency South Africa crown.

Makoanyane said that the road to this victory was far from easy.

“I faced challenges from struggling to sell tickets to gaining votes, but my mother’s support and my resilience carried me through. Beyond the stage, my journey as a finalist has been one of service. I volunteered at Amohelang Bophelong Disability Academy, contributed to a Youth Empowerment Seminar, and even donated blood, knowing that true beauty lies in giving back.”

Through her organisation, Ahang Sechaba Community Organisation, Makoanyane said that she will continue to empower, uplift, and serve the community by hosting youth empowerment seminars and workshops, supporting local ECD centres, donating to those in need, and giving back to local disability centres.

“My journey proves that with perseverance, passion, and purpose, every challenge can be turned into a crown. However, I cannot do it alone — I call on the Vaal community to join hands with me by contributing food and sanitary pad donations. Together we can restore dignity and bring hope to those who need it most.”