Being selected as a finalist in the 2026 Mrs Curve South Africa competition is a great honour for Vredenburg resident Gaynor Pieters.

Pieters said she felt emotional, humbled and excited when she received the news.

“Being selected as a Mrs Curve South Africa finalist was a moment that made me realise that taking a chance on myself had been worth it. As a wife, mother and businesswoman, I am often busy supporting everyone around me, so this journey has challenged me to step forward and celebrate myself too.”

She said the experience has reminded her that dreams do not have an expiry date and that it is never too late to believe in yourself. For Pieters, reaching the finals represents courage, growth and stepping outside her comfort zone.

“Confidence is not about waiting until you feel perfect; it is about choosing to believe that you are worthy exactly where you are,” she said.

Pieters said she has learned to stop comparing her journey to others and to appreciate her own uniqueness.

“This experience has taught me that true beauty comes from confidence, kindness, resilience and being comfortable in your own story,” she said.

If she wins the title, Pieters hopes to use the platform to encourage women to pursue their dreams, celebrate their individuality and raise awareness and acceptance around autism while supporting families navigating that journey.

“For me, winning would not simply be the end of a competition. It would be the beginning of a bigger purpose: to inspire women to stand proudly in who they are, believe in their dreams and never apologise for taking up space.”

The finals will take place on Friday 13 November at the Emperors Palace, Johannesburg.