Miss Arising Stars crowned in Emdeni

The Miss Arising Star hosted its first beauty pageant at Emdeni Social Link on April 4, to crown the first ever Miss Teen and Junior Arising Stars.

The pageant is a platform for empowering young, underprivileged girls from Soweto, helping them build confidence, develop positive self-esteem, and gain essential life skills, such as public speaking and community engagement that will benefit them far beyond the stage.

Sixteen contestants took to the stage, displaying both their beauty and intellect.

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The competition featured three categories which were creative attire, swimsuit, and evening gowns, allowing each contestant to shine in her unique way.

Former Miss Soweto 2023 finalist and founder of the pageant, Ofentse Radebe said her desire to uplift her community led her to create a pageant in the Emdeni area after recognising the lack of platforms dedicated to empowering young girls.

“Pageantry has truly changed my life. It transformed the way I see myself as a woman and taught me lessons I don’t think I could have learned anywhere else.

“Because I know the value and opportunities that pageants can offer, I want young girls from this area to have the same chance to grow, learn, and shine,” said Radebe.

Radebe further stated their mission is to uplift and inspire young women, encouraging them to strive for greatness and pursue a brighter future, rather than succumb to social issues such as substance abuse, illiteracy, and teenage pregnancy.

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Nomfundo Debeila and Nqobile Simka were announced as the very first Miss Teen and Junior Arising Star queens.

The newly crowned Miss Teen Arising Star, Nomfundo Debeila said, “I’m so excited to start this journey.

“For me, it’s not just about the crown it’s about using this platform to open doors for young girls and give them opportunities that can really make a difference.”