LAVANYA Levida Govender, the current Miss Teenager Universe South Africa, is getting ready to walk the walk once more, this time representing South Africa at the Miss Teenager Universe 2025 to be held in Bali, Indonesia, from February 24 to March 1, 2025.

The 16-year-old Merebank learner and ardent humanitarian is calling for support from her community to raise funds toward this remarkable opportunity to wave the South African flag high.

Also read: Fun for all at Merebank Secondary School

Lavanya’s modelling career began at the tender age of five when she joined a professional modelling school on The Bluff.

“What started off as a hobby has now become a career for me and it gives me immense joy to know and realise that I can make a difference and uplift young girls who are going through their own challenges and battles,” she said.

Now a professional model, Lavanya uses her platform to advocate for causes close to her heart. She collaborates with Save the Dignity of Our Girls at School, a non-profit organisation founded by Roshni Naicker. This initiative provides sanitary towels to underprivileged girls, ensuring that a lack of resources does not disrupt their education. Lavanya is passionate about expanding this project to empower more young women.

Her father first encouraged her to take up modelling as a way to build her confidence. “While it started as a confidence booster, it became a platform for me to spread the word of peace, love, joy and harmony,” she said.

Lavanya hopes to bring into focus the rich culture and diversity of South Africa through the spirit of ubuntu . “This is a chance to showcase our beautiful rainbow nation on the international stage,” she said.

Lavanya’s community outreach, her dedication to humanitarian work, and her advocacy for young women make her an inspirational figure. However, participation in Miss Teenager Universe requires significant funding to cover travel, accommodation, and other related expenses.

“I am raising funds to represent South Africa on this international stage. All proceeds will go towards making this possible,” she explained.

Supporters can contribute to Lavanya’s journey through her BackaBuddy campaign at www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/lavanyas-journey-to-miss-teenager-universe. Every donation brings her one step closer to fulfilling her dream and making South Africa proud.

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