Miss Teenager South Africa (MTSA), a nationally renowned beauty pageant, has been making waves since its inception in 2018. It's aim is to empower young women aged 14 to 19 and inspiring them to make positive changes in their communities. This year, the North West Province is proud to have seven outstanding finalists representing the region, each with their unique aspirations and goals.
Among these remarkable young ladies, five have shared their backgrounds and ambitions as they vie for the prestigious MTSA crown. Naledi Molekoa, an 18-year-old first-year student at the University of Pretoria hailing from Letlhabile in Brits, exudes optimism and determination. Molekoa expressed her pride in reaching this stage of the competition and embraced the Afrikaans proverb, "bietjie bietjie maak meer" (little by little makes a lot). With a background in public speaking for five years, she considers the MTSA platform a perfect opportunity to amplify her voice and inspire meaningful change.
"Representing the beautiful North West is both an honour and a pride. I want to put the North West on the map for teenagers who stand up to make the changes needed for their future. I want to show the youth that we must pave our way," said Molekoa. Mosa Gouwe, a 19-year-old from Rustenburg currently in Matric at Rauwane Sepeng Secondary School, is no stranger to pageantry.
In 2022, she was crowned 1st Teen Princess in the Miss Face of Rustenburg competition. Gouwe's primary objective in entering MTSA is to inspire others to achieve what they once deemed impossible and create a positive impact in her community. She echoed the words of former Miss South Africa Ndavi Nokeri, stating, "We cannot say we are moving forward if some of us are still left behind."
Gouwe aspires to be a role model to fellow youth and believes in embracing imperfections to build confidence. Tersia Ramakutoane, a 17-year-old ballet enthusiast from Brits, is currently in Grade 11 at Hartbeespoort High School. She found her way into pageantry during the challenging Covid-19 lockdown. Ramakutoane's passion extends beyond the stage, as she aims to raise awareness about the importance of mental health and well-being. Participating in MTSA provides Ramakutoane with a platform to address critical issues affecting South African teenagers.
She hopes to use this opportunity to inspire and empower young individuals to embrace their uniqueness, follow their dreams, and create a better future. Reabetswe Mogatusi, a 15-year-old from Mahikeng and a grade 9 learner atLetsatsing Science Secondary School, discovered her love for pageantry early on, reaching the top 10 in Miss D.P. Kgotlheng during her primary school years. She was crowned Miss Letsatsing Science Secondary School and still holds the title. Mogatusi, a model at Taahirah Modelling Academy, joined MTSA to gain valuable experience and knowledge about pageantry.
She aims to show young people that with determination, confidence, a strong support system, and dedication, anything is possible. Hlomamo Loabile, a 15-year-old from Vryburg and a grade 9 learner at Kismet Secondary School, boasts an impressive list of achievements as an RCL member, debate team participant, and North West Junior Provincial Commissioner.
Although it is her first venture into pageantry, she is determined to make a difference. Loabile's motivation for entering MTSA is to give back to her community and inspire young people not to be limited by their backgrounds. She advocates for self-confidence and entrepreneurship, aiming to help youth overcome societal pressures and unleash their full potential.
The finale of the MTSA 2023 competition is eagerly awaited, with the final stage scheduled for December 7 to 9 at Emperors Palace in Kempton Park, Gauteng. These seven young ladies from the North West Province are shining examples of the bright future ahead, as they use their voices and platforms to inspire change and empower their communities. The entire region stands proudly behind them as they vie for the coveted Miss Teenager South Africa title.
