Port Shepstone’s Tarusha Gounder crowned Miss KZN 2025
Tarusha Gounder shows purpose beyond the runway.
Port Shepstone’s Tarusha Gounder was crowned Miss KwaZulu-Natal 2025 at the Lyric Theatre in Ballito recently.
For Gounder, the title is more than just a crown.
“It’s an opportunity to lead, serve, and uplift my community. A destiny delayed is not a destiny denied,” she said.
The pageant included interviews, themed wear, and evening wear. Gounder impressed with her portrayal of Maleficent in the themed segment, earning her the Best Themed Wear award.
She also won Miss Personality and was honoured as the Overall Philanthropist Winner after collecting the most non-perishable food items for the Starfish Place of Safety, a charity that helps vulnerable children.
Gounder’s passion for community work was a highlight of her journey.
“Giving back is at the core of who I am,” she said.
Grateful for the support she received, Gounder thanks her parents, brother, extended family, friends, and sponsors for believing in her and contributing to the charity drive.
As Miss KwaZulu-Natal 2025, she plans to focus on youth empowerment, education, and women’s initiatives.
“My goal is to inspire others, lead with compassion, and help create meaningful change,” she said.
Gounder added that she lives by two mottos: “I do not let the opinions of others become my truth” and “A destiny delayed is not a destiny denied.”
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