Noluvu Ludidi
Representing the West Coast in Mrs Curve South Africa 2026 as semi-finalists is a proud moment for Gaynor Pieters and Diona Carolus.
Pieters, from Vredenburg, said she was inspired to enter because it gives her the chance to step into a space she has always wanted, without feeling she had to change her body first. “For a long time, I believed I needed to get back to my pre-mom body before I could pursue pageantry.
“Seeing a platform that includes curved women made me realise this was my moment to embrace myself. It became more than just a competition. It became a journey to rediscover myself, my confidence, and my passion for modelling,” she added.
For Carolus, from Paternoster, entering the competition was not certain at first. She felt it was not for her, but later saw the opportunity it could present and decided to enter. Carolus said she wants to use the platform to be a visible curvey woman, not shy away from her weight, and show that curve women also have a place in the industry.
“Beauty comes in all shapes and sizes. You don’t have to be a certain weight to be seen or heard. This platform makes women aware of that.” She encourages women to practice self-love and recognise that their worth is not defined by their body.
Pieters said she wants to show women, especially moms, that they don’t have to wait to feel “perfect” before they start living their dreams. “I want to inspire women to embrace themselves as they are right now. By sharing my journey, I hope to encourage others to step out of their comfort zones, reclaim their confidence, and realise it’s never too late to rediscover yourself.”
She believes women should not wait to love themselves. “Your body tells a story of strength, growth, and resilience. Be kind to yourself and celebrate who you are today. Confidence comes from within, and when you embrace that, it changes everything,” she added.
Both women are ready for what the journey holds.
To vote for Pieters, sms “Vote Gaynor” and to vote for Carolus, sms
“Vote Diona” to 35180.
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