Miss Springs 2024 and reigning Continental Queen of Africa, Bejandri Lourens (23), will grace the beauty stage again when she competes in the Miss Pre-Eminen pageant on January 31 at the Evander Lodge, Mpumalanga.

Speaking to the Springs Advertiser, Lourens said the timing and the intention behind the competition drew her to it.

Although a one-day pageant, she said it is an opportunity to reconnect with the stage after competing internationally.

Unlike larger, long-term competitions, Miss Pre-Eminent is more intimate and focused, allowing contestants to showcase their character, confidence and presence in a short space of time.

For her, it’s about quality over scale and making every moment on that stage count. Lourens said representing Springs is important to her.

Being crowned Miss Springs shaped her foundation and reminded her that where you come from plays a vital role in who you become.

“Carrying my hometown with me, whether on a national, international, or even smaller platform, is my way of honouring my roots and showing others that impact is not measured by size, but by intention,” she said.

She said winning Continental Queen of Africa at the Miss Asia Pacific International in October taught her that confidence comes from preparation and self-trust.

She learnt to stay present, adaptable and authentic, no matter the scale of the competition, adding that those lessons are especially relevant for Miss Pre-Eminent, where every interaction matters and each moment on stage is a chance to leave a lasting impression.

Lourens said that through Miss Pre-Eminent, she hopes to promote self-belief, personal growth and community involvement.

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“I believe that even a one-day pageant can create powerful conversations and inspire change. My message is that confidence, kindness and purpose can be expressed on any platform, regardless of its size,” said the beauty queen.

At this stage of her career, she said that Miss Pre-Eminent represents alignment and allows her to merge experience, purpose and ambition into one platform.

She is no longer just chasing titles but building a legacy. She added that this competition has given her the chance lead with intention and represent a brand of beauty that is empowered, compassionate and impactful.

If crowned Miss Pre-Eminent, she would use the title to lead by example, showing that impact is created through action, not size.

“I hope to inspire others to embrace opportunities, support their communities and recognise that even small platforms can create meaningful change when used with heart and integrity,” concluded Lourens.