Former Mrs Eastern Cape 2018 title holder, Nazley Gabaatlhole, has been making a significant impact in her community through various initiatives and events. Born and raised in Kariega, Gabaatlhole has always been passionate about empowering others and sharing her faith.
Her journey began when she was crowned Mrs Uitenhage Community, a philanthropic pageant that paved the way for her to compete in the Mrs. Eastern Cape 2018 pageant. Winning the title was a turning point in her life, allowing her to pursue her passion for building people, motivating, and encouraging.
Recently, Gabaatlhole made history by becoming the first person from Kariega to audition for the Lion King International auditions.
Although she did not make the final cut, the experience was a dream come true.
“Duma Ndlovu invited me to audition for the Rafiki character in 2022, after I went for the Muvhango Musical audition which was held in Gqeberha during that time. I went for the first round of auditions in Johannesburg in October 2022 and it was an experience! Being the only person from Kariega and the oldest, I didn’t think I would make it even to the second round. I was called back the following day for the second and third audition rounds and then again the semi- final round in January 2023 which was amazing,” the beauty queen added.
Gabaatlhole is also the founder of the Queens of Hope Foundation, an NPO aimed at equipping individuals to reach their full potential and inspiring others to do the same.
Alongside her friend, Charmaine Hendricks, they started the Mrs Uitenhage Community philanthropic pageant to support cancer patients and those in need. “My friends, Charmaine Hendricks and Sharon Nell have played a big part in my life and brought me hope when I had no hope, so hence we started this NPO. To be hope for others,” she said.
As an evangelist, Gabaatlhole’s role has significantly influenced her community work and events. Born into a pastoral family, she was introduced to the Christian faith at a young age and has since dedicated her life to sharing the Gospel.
On December 15, she will host the first annual Praise YHWH through Arts, Music, and Poetry event at the Uitenhage Town Hall.
“The event aims to showcase local talent while giving thanks to God for the gifts and talents He has bestowed upon them. Attendees can expect performances by local authors, musicians, poets, and dancers, including Alvito Arries, BruceKa, Yaeesh Mo, Marcellus (Jazzy), Emelda Nel, Jaime Lee Grootboom, and Leticia Moses. Apostle Ronnie Johnson from Soulwave Radio will be the guest speaker.”
Tickets are available for R80, and stall rentals are also available for R80. Contact Sharon Nell on 078 272 6911 for bookings.
Gabaatlhole credited her husband, Pastor Sebastien Gabaatlhole, for his support in her community initiatives and events.
“The event’s vision is to bring praise to God, acknowledging and thanking Him for the gifts and talents He has given. Psalm 150 says, ‘Let everything that has breath praise the Lord’,” Gabaatlhole concluded.
