Two Helderberg mothers are among the country’s top married beauties to have advanced to the Mrs South Africa 2023 semi-final following the national casting event at Emperors Palace in Johannesburg on Friday 3 February.
Strand local Rechaux Browne and Chantell Davis from Somerset West are among the 110 women to be selected as semi-finalists in the prestigious competition. Following the announcement, the semi-finalists participated in a jam-packed two-day conference filled with motivational talks, workshops, upskilling sessions, socialising and networking opportunities, and an introduction to the famous Mrs SA sisterhood.
“Being selected and receiving the news was one of the most overwhelming and happiest moments of my life,” Browne said of her inclusion in the next round.
Said Davis: “I was overjoyed and filled with a deep sense of gratitude, upon hearing the incredible news,” she said after news of her inclusion had sunk in.”
Mrs SA is foremost a self-discovery and empowerment programme that celebrates diversity, ambition and confidence while showcasing some of the country’s most phenomenal and talented women, and giving them the skills and tools needed to achieve their dreams.
Said Mrs SA CEO Joani Johnson: “We are proud to work alongside so many strong, formidable and inspirational married women, and to empower them through our pillars of community, self-development, and networking to be the leaders and social game-changers that we need in this country. Our experienced mentors teach leadership, entrepreneurship, marketing, self-promotion and self-discovery throughout the year to ensure that all participants have a truly life changing experience.”
Sharing more about her decision to enter the pageant, Browne said it had been a childhood dream. “As a mom of seven children, I was always finding a reason not to enter. Victoriously overcoming child and woman abuse in my life, it has always been close to my heart to let my story make a difference; it’s something I never spoke about out of fear of being judged and the negative impact it could potentially have on my life,” she said.
“Mrs SA has offered me the platform and support to step out into my purpose – the purpose to use my story as inspiration and to be a voice of encouragement and hope for others. I want to show the world what self-love and courage is, and that your past does not define you or your future.”
Davis hopes to shake off all stereotypes and negatives holding her back from reaching her full potential. “No more boxes, no more labels – it’s time to break free from the constraints of society’s expectations and walk in purpose,” she pointed out.
“I once lived a life plagued by fear, shame and rejection, constantly comparing myself to others. However, through years of personal growth and inner healing, I discovered my true identity and purpose. As a wife, mother of four, including superfetation twins, and a woman in ministry, I am now passionately dedicated to bringing hope and encouragement to all South Africans as a voice of inspiration.”
As part of her journey, Browne hopes to raise awareness around woman and child abuse and to be a voice for those who do not have one, empowering as many women as she possibly can.
Meanwhile, Davis hopes to raise awareness about Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and its impact on women’s quality of life.
“We are blown away by the number of high-quality entries that we received this year, and we are deeply appreciative to have met so many wonderful women from all walks of life. The national casting day was exceptionally difficult, as a substantial number of entrants have what it takes to make a success of this programme,” Johnson concluded.
Follow Browne and Davis’ journey on the Mrs South Africa Instagram and Facebook pages.
