Two young learners, Anitha Nazo (12) and Surprise Peter (12), from Zimbane Valley in Mthatha, have raised their flag high by showcasing their passion for the modelling world.
Anitha is in Grade 6, and Surprise is in Grade 7 at Good Shepherd English Medium School in Mthatha.
Their coach, trainer, and the founder of SME Models Mr and Miss Mthatha, Sipho Ngceba, confirmed their achievements.
He stated that he has had the honour of working with many talented individuals, but none have impressed him more than Surprise and Anitha.
Surprise mentioned that she was influenced by her friends and has since fallen in love with modelling.
According to her, modelling is all about being yourself and giving back to the community.
“So far, I have learned a lot, including public speaking and communicating with my peers. Modelling is helping a lot with self-discipline and treating others equally. Balancing my schoolwork with modelling is challenging, but I need to focus on what is good and best for me,” said Surprise.
She added that her advice to her peers is to pursue what they love, express their talent, keep themselves busy, and avoid making bad decisions due to peer pressure.
According to her, the advantage of modelling is that it limits time spent playing around and helps them become known and recognised by their community. So far, she has won the Miss Good Shepherd English Medium School title in 2023, the first princess in Mr and Miss Young Mthatha 2023/24, and Miss Golden Heart SA (public choice) 2024.
On the other hand, Anitha said she chose modelling to amplify her voice and advocate for children’s rights, as it is her passion.
She added that modelling has been an incredible journey, teaching her self-discipline, confidence, and the importance of giving back to her community.
According to her, she gives back by making donations and participating in charity work without expecting anything in return.
“Modelling has helped me gain experience, develop skills for future pageants or competitions, network with industry professionals, and build a social media presence and influencer status. I balance school and pageants by making a schedule to stay organised. I prioritise homework and studying, and I use my free time for pageant practice. I always keep in mind that school comes first,” said Anitha.
She advised her peers to love themselves inside and out, as their uniqueness is their strength.
Anitha added that confidence is key; they must own their look and their stage and embrace their flaws because they make them beautiful.
Anitha has received three titles so far: Mr and Miss Hotel Savoy, Mthatha 2023; Miss Top Model Globe, Durban 2024; and Miss TLY Mthatha, Mthatha 2023. She said her future plans include becoming Miss Universe, inspiring millions, establishing a charity foundation for education and empowerment, launching a clothing line and promoting African culture.
