Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube, [email protected]
LOWER Six Cowdray Park High School student Michelle M Sithole (16) is still coming to terms with her new reality after being crowned Miss Cowdray Park at a pageant held in her neighbourhood last weekend.
The title has transformed her confidence and positioned her as a role model for young girls in her community.
“It feels absolutely amazing to win such a competition. I’m thrilled, grateful and inspired to represent my community and empower others, especially young girls, to chase their dreams with confidence,” she said in an interview with Sunday Life.
The beauty outshone 11 contestants. Twenty-two-year-old Unalina Ncube was named first runner-up, while 18-year-old Alinda Ncube took second runner-up after a tightly contested showcase of stage presence and eloquence. Tracey Ncube, 21, claimed the Miss Catwalk title for her confident runway performance, and 17-year-old Diana Mlauzi walked away with Miss Personality.
Sithole said she is now working on balancing her studies in Biology, Crop Science and Geography with her new responsibilities as a beauty queen. Reflecting on being crowned, she described the announcement of her name as an unforgettable moment.
“When they announced my name, I was in disbelief. It was my first pageant, and I remember feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. As it sank in, I just felt so happy and grateful. I screamed and hugged my friends and family, it was amazing,” she recalled.
Though new to pageantry, Sithole has been modelling since primary school, a foundation that helped her prepare for the stage. She credits her mother as her biggest inspiration, mentor and pillar of strength.
“My biggest inspiration is my mum. She taught me to be confident and determined and she continues to encourage me to chase my dreams and never give up. She’s also very kind and compassionate.
“Most of the outfits I use for modelling are made by her.”
Taking part in the pageant’s inaugural edition has boosted Sithole’s confidence in public speaking and interacting with new people.
“At school, I’ve become more confident speaking in front of crowds and meeting new people. The rehearsals pushed us beyond our comfort zones, helping us build communication, confidence, posture and discipline. I discovered strengths I didn’t know I had and now feel more confident speaking in public and engaging with people from different backgrounds,” she said.
“In my community, I’m starting to get involved in local events and meeting amazing people who inspire me. It’s been a big change, but a great one,” she said.
Balancing academics and pageantry requires discipline, a skill Sithole has quickly learnt.
“Time management is key. I prioritise my schoolwork and plan whenever I have modelling or pageant commitments.
My friends, family and the Miss Cowdray Park organisers are very supportive and help me stay on track,” she said.
Like many young people, Sithole has faced challenges of self-doubt and comparison, but winning the title helped her overcome those fears.
“I didn’t think I’d win Miss Cowdray Park, but I did and that removed all the self-doubt. My mum always reminds me that everyone is on their own journey and that comparisons are pointless. I now focus on my own goals and celebrate small wins,” she said.
Beyond the crown, Michelle is passionate about empowering young women, promoting sustainability and supporting initiatives that help girls build confidence and leadership skills.
“My goal is to create safe spaces where girls can share their struggles, learn new skills and receive mentorship. Many young girls face pressure, self-doubt and social challenges. I want them to know that they are not alone and that their dreams are valid.”
Looking ahead, she dreams of pursuing a Bachelor of Veterinary Science while continuing to grow in modelling and community development.
“ I would love to be studying veterinary science and work on projects that combine sustainability and community development. Modelling-wise, I would love to build a strong portfolio and maybe even host or judge pageants,” she said.
To young girls aspiring to follow a similar path, Sithole said: “You’re capable of amazing things. Don’t compare yourself to others. Focus on your strengths, celebrate what makes you unique and remember that mistakes are part of growth.”
Organisers plan to make the pageant an annual event, following an overwhelmingly positive response that highlighted the demand for platforms fostering confidence, leadership and creativity among young women.
Co-director Mayibongwe Mthunzi said the initiative was created to provide meaningful opportunities for girls in underpriviledged communities, where access to mentorship and personal development is often limited.
Mthunzi said as part of her duties, Miss Cowdray Park will serve as a bridge between the Cowdray Park community and the local council.
“She has the responsibility to come up with effective projects that cater to the youth in the area and beyond. She must also act as a mother figure to young girls in the community, leading ongoing outreach programmes such as talk shows or seminars focused on guidance and empowerment.
“She is expected to spearhead an initiative to tackle drug abuse in Cowdray Park, as it remains one of the most pressing challenges. During her reign, she should also organise at least one clean-up campaign every month.
“In addition, she has the responsibility of donating to a less privileged institution — whether a school or an orphanage — at least once every three months.”
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