Journey to the modeling industry for Diepkloof locals
Since the age of 15 she has been participating in pageants that happen locally and has won a couple of titles which has made her grow in the industry.
Lehlohonolo Sefuno is a 19-year-old pageant model from Roodepoort Witportjie who has conquered most of the challenges she came across in the modelling industry and has risen above all odds.
Sefuno derived her love for pageantry and modelling from the former Miss South Africa, Zozibini Tunzi.
Since the age of 15 she has been participating in pageants that happen locally and has won a couple of titles which has made her grow in the industry.
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“I was inspired by my mom to join modelling and also people who are close to me, but most importantly Zozibini Tunzi because she taught me that confidence is key, she is so realistic, passionate and confident,” Stefano said.
She has won few titles since she started her journey including Miss Roodeport Exclusive Queens 2022, Miss eMdeni Second Princess 2022, Miss Radio West FM Second Princess 2022, Miss teen Meadowlands Overall Winner 2022, Miss Soweto Beauties Second Princess and overall winner 2024.
Stefano mentioned that the biggest advantage of joining pageants is that it can strengthen one’s self-esteem and sharpen their confidence.
She describes pageantry as a shield to help one know how to deal with losing because it’s not every time that a person wins in life.
“I want to inspire young girls to stay positive and believe in themselves. I want them to know that modelling is not about physical appearance but about how you portray yourself as a model,” said Sefuno.
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Despite the challenges she has come across in the industry, Sefuno has a dream of becoming Miss South Africa one day.
“I was de-crowned in my first pageant in front of the audience and I was told that I didn’t deserve the crown even though I knew that I had worked hard for it,” said Sefuno.
“Being a model to me means I have to do good for people so that they can look up to me. I have donated party packs to Siyakhula Early Learning and to an old age home. I have done several charity works and donated clothes and lent a helping hand to the needy.”
