A four-year modelling journey reached a major milestone for 19-year-old Samkel’Isiphesihl’Esithandwayo Ntuli when she was crowned Top Model Mpumalanga Senior and walked away with a R10 000 cash prize, a crown and a sash at the PlayTSOGO Globe at The Ridge on October 10.

The eMalahleni-based model described the experience as one of the highlights of her career, saying months of preparation and years of dedication to the industry finally paid off.

Runway debut

Ahead of the competition, contestants took part in two practice sessions that included fittings, photoshoots and final preparations.

They were also allowed to familiarise themselves with the stage the day before the event.Reflecting on the experience, Ntuli said the competition challenged her to step outside her comfort zone.

“I am more of a pageant queen, and it was my first time doing runway fashion. I had to make sure that my walks and poses were perfect, meaning I had to practise a lot,” she said.

Despite the pressure, she embraced the challenge and enjoyed every moment of the preparation process.

“I really had a lot of fun preparing, and now I know hard work really pays off,” she said.

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Stage success

Ntuli described the event as a memorable occasion, praising the atmosphere created by the organisers and spectators.

“I had the time of my life on that stage, and I was honoured to showcase my talents. The venue was beautiful, the stage was beautiful, and the crowd was on fire,” she said.

Her efforts paid off when her name was announced as the winner in the senior category.

The young model admitted that the reality of her achievement is still sinking in. She noted that, to this day, she cannot stop watching the video and is still in disbelief.

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“I am truly blessed. It can only be God,” she said.

Ntuli also praised the fashion showcased during the event and said contestants thoroughly enjoyed presenting the designers’ creations on the runway.

She expressed gratitude to Wandile Litheko for the opportunity, describing it as a privilege to work with her.

The Top Model Mpumalanga title adds to an impressive list of achievements accumulated over the past four years.

Her accolades include Miss Teen Emalahleni Teen Winner (2023), Miss World Radiance Teen Winner (2023), Miss Inspire First Runner-Up (2024), Miss Global Princess Teen Winner (2025), the GirlGang Youth Empowerment Award (2025), Embo Lights Music and Business Awards for Best Model and Best Youth Empowerment (2025), and Mzanzi Awards Best Model First Runner-Up (2026). Ntuli is also a youth reporter at a local radio station.

What began as a single gathering in eMalahleni has grown into a collaborative platform connecting female leaders across the country. Read more here: https://t.co/POToKUTRib

— WitbankNews (@WitbankN) November 2, 2026

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