This comes after her recent crowning as Miss Mama Africa 2020 at Loftus Park in Pretoria.

The pageant aims to empower women not only through their beauty, but through their intellect and the work they do.

Zichally beat 15 other contestants who came from different communities.

Zichally said, “I entered the competition because there are so many issues that I want to address using this title.

“Body shaming is one of them, it is real and affects us negatively. Many people are suffering from depression and other life-threatening illnesses because of their body image.

“We live in societies where we are hardly being addressed by our real names but names that humiliates us such as ‘Sdudla’ (fat one) or big mama.”

Zichally said she once reached a point where she had no confidence and lived in a very dark corner. “So when I was introduced to this life changing opportunity of Miss Mama Africa, I knew it was worth it and it gave me the confidence to accept my body and love myself the way I was created.

“My imperfections are my fabric and they weave together beautifully.”

As a teacher who is very active in the arts, Zichally partakes in pageants very often and this is where she preaches to young people about self confidence and leadership skills.

“I want kids to be comfortable in their own skin and not try to fit into societal expectations. My students are my biggest cheerleaders and supporters. I like to believe that I inspire them.”

Zichally offers her learners extra mural activities such as drama, music, poetry and art. “Everytime they look at me I can tell they are proud that I’m theirs and that gives me courage to continue and never give up.”

Zichally is the first ever Mama Africa to be the face and the queen. As a result of Zichally’s hard work,the school was presented with a cheque.