Leano Maledimo (6) from the City of Coal is making her way to the top in the pageantry industry.

As a Grade 1 learner at Laerskool Reynorif, Leano serves confidence and talents as she is already representing Mpumalanga province as a semi-finalist in the Miss Township South Africa 2026 Petite category.

‘Jack of all trades’ title works better with Leano.

She sings in her school’s junior choir, plays netball, enjoys ballet, swimming, running, and hiking. She is also a model under the guidance of Wandile Litheko, and in 2025 she secured the Photogenic Title at the Top Model Show.

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Her advocacy, Lending a Helping Hand,’ aims to show the young star’s caring side. She believes in sharing and caring for others by donating clothes and food, while also encouraging clean-up initiatives to protect the environment.

Now competing against other young models from across South Africa, Leano is standing firm to make her school, community, and province proud. The next step in her journey is reaching the finalist stage, and she needs the support of her community to get there.

Leano believes every gesture of encouragement brings her closer to her dream and inspires other young girls to believe in themselves.

To help Leano shine on the national stage, you can contact Flake Maledimo at 083 587 9728 or follow her journey on Instagram at @Leano_Maledimo.

Young women inspire at Mr & Miss eMalahleni High School 2026 crowning ceremony
Read more here: https://t.co/OfxSB4l9ih pic.twitter.com/JXN4Ur83vT

— WitbankNews (@WitbankN) June 11, 2026

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