Tumelo Sibande (17) is a model, Miss Teen Inspire South Africa finalist, and founder of the Miss Phola Queens 1st Grand Finale, a pageant that aims to improve self-confidence and teach young girls the ins and outs of the beauty pageant industry.

“Many people may define this pageant as simple, but the main idea was to build the inner girl child, and to teach young girls that they can do anything they set their minds to,” Tumelo shared.

The pageant was held at the Phola Apostolic Faith Mission Church on Saturday, March 16, with a total of 18 contestants, 10 teens and eight pre-teens.

Tumelo described the process as a journey that was all worth it in the end, “it was a great journey, even through the hard times, but hope was never lost. I define this pageant as a learning process of how to be a lady and how to know your values in life. I would like to thank the Miss Phola Queens’s sponsor, Kriel Occupational Centre, my production team, and most importantly the Isibonelo Daycare Centre who let us rehearse in their hall for free,” Tumelo cheered.

Winner of the Miss Phola Queens 1st Grand Finale, Kagiso Moreu shared her excitement.

“I am excited about my success and journey, but my journey doesn’t end now. I still want to be Miss Universe and inspire young girls to join the pageantry because it is a perfect platform that goes far beyond Phola,” Kagiso reckoned.

Miss Phola Queens 1st Grand Finale pre-teen winner, Lwandle Sithole mentioned that the experience for her was wonderful as she got a chance to get to understand pageantry through Miss Phola Queens.

“In community work, I understand that it is good to give and help out in your community. Next, I want to see myself as Miss South Africa. Within the beauty pageant industry, I have learned that one must always be clean, presentable, mentally healthy, and you must work hard to reach your goals,” Lwandle ended.

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