Exploring Johannesburg’s Miss South Africa 2023 Contenders

The Miss South Africa organisation has announced the top 30 aspiring candidates competing for the highly sought-after title in 2023. While participants hail from across the country, Gauteng dominates with nine contestants, including two from Tshwane.

When asked about their motivations for entering the pageant, all the contestants expressed the competition’s significance and dedication to serving others.

One notable contestant is Bryoni Govender, 26, from Morningside, who previously ranked in the Top 12 of Miss South Africa 2018. Govender said she confidently joined Miss South Africa 2023, ready to champion women’s empowerment.

“My aim is to embody the principle of ’empowered women empower women’ by using my voice and personal experience of resilience, refusing to let others dictate my story,” explained Govender.

Carmen Barnard, 24, from Fairland, described her participation in Miss South Africa 2023 as a natural choice. As an advocate for women’s empowerment and leadership, Barnard believes the platform provides an incredible opportunity to positively influence society and challenge conventional notions of beauty and intelligence for women.

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Lerato Maponya, 26, from Ruimsig, expressed that it has always been her childhood dream to witness the accomplishments of women who preceded her through the Miss SA platform.

“I believe I deserve to win because I possess the necessary qualities and determination to fulfill the role. I am ready to put in the effort,” Maponya affirmed.

Ané Oosthuysen, 25, from Vanderbijlpark, held the title of Miss Vaal 2019/20 and was also part of South Africa’s Top 30 in 2021. Oosthuysen explained her decision to compete in Miss South Africa 2023: “From a young age, I have known that my purpose and passion lie in a life dedicated to serving others.”

Inspired by the impact and legacy of past queens, Lungo Katete, 26, from Midrand, aspires to create her own lasting legacy through participation in the pageant.

Among the hopefuls is Natasha Joubert, 25, who previously represented the country in Miss Universe and secured a place in the Top 3 in 2020.

Ndyebo Lurayi, 26, from Midrand, has always been driven by the desire to spread messages of hope and prosperity and effect sustainable change in people’s lives, although unsure of the exact path to achieve these goals.

Lebohang Raputsoe, 24, from Sharpeville, Vereeniging, participated in Miss Grand South Africa 2022 and reached the top 16. For Raputsoe, the Miss South Africa platform represents much more than just a title. She perceives Miss South Africa as an intellectually-driven woman who serves with unwavering conviction, intention, and dignity, reflecting her own humble yet influential nature.

These diverse contestants possess the qualities of empowerment, purpose, and a strong commitment to making a difference.

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Photo: Facebook / @Miss South Africa