AN Amanzimtoti High School learner is fulfilling her dreams of pageantry after reaching the semi-finals of Teen Universe South Africa. She will compete for the crown in Johannesburg later this year.

Also read: Amanzimtoti model gracefully wins KZN pageant

Amri du Plooy decided to take a leap of faith and challenge herself when the opportunity arose to enter the pageant. The journey so far is all the more special as she is doing it in honour of her late grandmother, Rina du Plooy, who often dressed Amri up and encouraged her to be confident in her own skin.

“I’ve always been interested in pageantry and modelling because it combines confidence, personal growth and community involvement. My gran is one of my biggest inspirations. Her strength and determination taught me valuable lessons that I carry with me every day. She played a huge role in nurturing my love for fashion and so being part of a pageant feels like a way of carrying her memory with me,” said Amri.

Amri placed top three in the public choice award so far, despite Teen Universe SA being her first major pageant. She said that she loves that pageantry goes beyond appearance and gives young women a platform to make a difference and inspire others.

“It has pushed me out of my comfort zone. Receiving my sash was a special moment and I look forward to travelling to Johannesburg. What excites me most is the opportunity to use the platform for positive impact. Throughout the year, I have several plans involving fundraising and community outreach initiatives. I hope to use this experience to make a meaningful difference while representing Amanzimtoti and KZN on a national stage,” said Amri.

Outside of schoolwork and pageantry, Amri enjoys public speaking. To unwind, she enjoys going on afternoon walks on the beach and spending quality time with her family.

This article has been amended to correct the pageant title.

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