Online Reporter
Langalakhe Mabena
It was oohs, aahs and talent galore in Tshabalala as Khaya Arts unveiled their first ever Mr and Miss Khaya Arts pageant on 13 June.
The award-winning Khaya Arts dance ensemble took things up a notch, adding some serious style to their brand with the launch of a modelling pageant that celebrates young talent aged 17 to 25.
After strutting their stuff and serving serious catwalk energy, 16-year-old Thandeka Lissah Mpofu and 22-year-old Labani Hlongwane walked away with the crowns and a mouthwatering stash of prizes.
The stylish duo each scored a four plate gas stove, 5kg gas cylinder, night outs sponsored by Smallie’s Boutiques and Vashwan Academy, a 6-month data voucher from MMEP Productions, £50 from Khaya Arts friends, a
Sterling Hotel dinner, and a US$100 voucher from Mental Voices Trust. Talk about winning big!
Khaya Arts founder and director, Future Dube, beamed with pride.
“The first edition came with lots of lessons but was a huge success. We are coming back stronger next year,” he said.
Miss Khaya Arts, Thandeka Mpofu, redefines ‘beauty with a purpose.’ Inspired by her mother’s modelling dreams, the Northend beauty is now flying the family flag high.
“My modelling journey is rooted in my mom’s unrealised dreams. I’m here to promote body positivity and redefine beauty standards,” said the Montrose Girls High turned Concepts Learning Academy Form 4 student.
She also dabbles in poetry and wants to use her crown to promote arts and women empowerment.
Mr Khaya Arts, Labani Hlongwane from Tshabalala Sizinda, is a die hard David Beckham fan who works at Monarch Steel and dreams of changing lives.
“I wanted to be on TV since I was a kid. Beckham inspires me both in fashion and football,” said Hlongwane.
He’s also a peer educator, passionate about fighting drug abuse, and has already made moves, featuring in visuals by Bling 4, Tammy Moyo and Master H.
From dreams to impact, these two are ready to serve face, style and purpose!
