All women are queens, says Mrs SA semi-finalist

More women are defining the concept of age just being a number and breaking every day stereotypes, among them is Andile Pieterson of Betania in Izotsha.

Andile took a leap of faith, entered the esteemed Mrs South Africa pageant where she has been shortlisted as a semi-finalist for the 2022 edition of the competition.

A married mother of two, 33 year old Andile is now based in Ballito but often travels back to Port Shepstone as she still owns an optometry practice here.

“My journey so far is that of self-discovery and empowerment as I have attended workshops with phenomenal women and life coaches who offered motivation and essential training for the journey ahead,” Andile said.

After an unfortunate separation between her parents, Andile relocated with her mom to Isipingo near Durban, where she attended Strelitzia Secondary School before obtaining bachelor’s degree in optometry at UKZN.

The journey towards the crown is never absent of philanthropic projects, and partnering up with her twin sister, they setup the TwinsOneyes Foundation.

“We provide free glasses to children in underprivileged schools and also work with organisations such as the Hibiscus Coast Rotary Club on their health days to provide eyecare,” Andile said.

With Mrs South Africa focusing on married contestants, Andile aims to inspire young girls within her community and around the country to know that their dreams are valid.

“I want the the ordinary woman who works a 9 to 5 job to know that she is a queen wherever she is, and during my Mrs SA journey I represent African women by staying true to my culture,” she said.

“Being a semi-finalist from KwaZulu-Natal I already am an ambassador for my province,” she added.

All South Coast residents and locals are encouraged to vote for Andile via SMS by texting Andile Pieterson to 47587.

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