Online Reporter
Former Miss South Africa and Miss Supranational winner Lalela Mswane is no stranger to competition, but this time she is stepping away from the pageant stage and into a completely different environment.
The beauty queen is among the celebrities set to take on the upcoming season of “Tropika Island of Treasure”, where contestants will be pushed to their physical limits by demanding challenges, strategic gameplay and life on Reunion Island.
While many viewers know her for her pageant success, Mswane says preparing for the reality competition has required a different kind of focus.
“Preparing for ‘Tropika Island of Treasure’ has reminded me that discipline and determination aren’t just qualities you switch on for big moments, they’re habits you build every single day,” she explained.
“As I prepare for the island, I’m applying that same mindset by staying mentally sharp, physically prepared and emotionally grounded.”
To get herself competition-ready, the former Miss South Africa has been sticking to a strict training schedule.
She revealed that she is currently in the gym five mornings a week alongside her trainer, focusing on cardiovascular fitness, strength training and endurance work.
Ballet and Pilates also form part of her routine, helping with flexibility, balance and mental wellbeing.
When it comes to nutrition, Mswane said there have not been any drastic changes.
“I’ve always maintained a fairly clean and balanced diet, so in the lead up to the competition, my focus has simply been on staying consistent and nourishing my body in the best way possible.”
Although she has competed on some of the world’s biggest stages, including Miss South Africa and Miss Supranational, she believes authenticity remains her biggest advantage.
“Maintaining authenticity has always brought out the best results in everything I’ve pursued, so going into the show, I intend to remain unapologetically and authentically Lalela, just as I have on every platform and in every competition I’ve been a part of.”
The reality competition will also test contestants mentally, something Mswane says she has been actively preparing for.
“For me, preparation has looked like intentionally strengthening my discipline, protecting my peace and remaining connected to the things that keep me centred,” she said.
She added that maintaining healthy routines and creating space for reflection have been important parts of her preparation process.
Mswane describes her preparation for the show as a focus on discipline, keeping her peace and ensuring she stays centred through routine and reflection.
While she acknowledges the upcoming physical challenges, she is most interested in the social side of the game, a dynamic she hasn’t tested in competition before.
She credits her success to grit and willpower, noting that she remains determined to achieve her goals no matter what obstacles come her way.
Beyond the competition, she is eager to explore and appreciate the scenery and culture of Reunion Island. As the show approaches, fans will see Mswane transition from her usual pageant roles to tackling strategy and island living. – IOL
