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In a momentous event held in Durban, young Minentle Sondzaba, hailing from the quaint town of Kwa Bhaca in the Eastern Cape, captured the hearts of many as she was crowned Miss Mini Universe South Africa. The 7-year-old, a Grade 3 learner at Greenwood Primary School in Gqeberha, emerged victorious among 26 contestants representing all nine provinces of South Africa.
Under the mentorship of the Kungawo Mpini Foundation for Modeling, Minentle’s journey in the world of modeling commenced at the tender age of 5 at Sophisticate Models, a decision that would pave her path to glory.
Weziwe Sondzaba, a devoted single mother and businesswoman, stood by her daughter every step of the way, expressing immense pride in Minentle’s achievement. Reflecting on their humble beginnings in Kwa Bhaca, Weziwe emphasized the significance of this triumph for their community, underscoring the challenges of unemployment that drive Minentle’s aspirations to become an entrepreneur in the future.
She said: “To me as a parent, I am over the moon regarding where we come from, which is a disadvantage location in Kwa Bhaca.”
The Miss Teen Universe South Africa (MINISA) pageant, known for its commitment to providing platforms for South African girls on the international stage, awarded Minentle a year-long monitored program with the Miss Teen Universe Organization, alongside the opportunity to represent South Africa at the Mini Universe pageant in Colombia. Additionally, she secured coveted spots to showcase her talent at New York and Milan Fashion Weeks.
The crown winner Minentle is very happy and excited she is also much grateful to her coach for teaching them how to be calm and do their best.
She said: “I want to be a businesswoman when I grow up because in the Eastern Cape, there are no jobs. That’s why I want to create employment so that people can be able to provide for their families.”
The outpouring of support for Minentle and her fellow contestants was palpable upon their return to Port Elizabeth, with a warm reception featuring dances and gifts awaiting the top 3 winners, all from the Eastern Cape.
In a related triumph for the region, Kungawo Mpini, crowned Miss Mini World South Africa, will fly the South African flag high at the Mini World pageant in the Dominican Republic, representing the nation’s talent and beauty on the global stage.
Moreover, Miss Grand South Africa Lwazikazi Johannes is set to make her mark at the Miss Grand International competition in El Salvador, showcasing the diverse and remarkable beauty of South Africa to the world.
As Minentle’s journey continues to inspire hope and pride, her aspirations to uplift her community through entrepreneurship stand as a testament to the resilience and ambition of South Africa’s youth.
