BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MBABANE– Mbalenhle Kimberly Manana, a prominent figure in the fashion and modeling industry, Founder and CEO of Top Models Eswatini (TME) and Top Models Africa, has been selected to judge for two highly anticipated pageants: Miss Tswelopele The Legacy 2025 on September 27, 2025, in Johannesburg, South Africa, and Mr and Miss Lesotho Teen Unite on September 28, 2025, in Lesotho.
Manana has built a global fashion empire from her roots in Eswatini. Her agency, TME, has established a strong reputation for successfully placing Eswatini models on international stages. Known as Kimberley, she is an experienced international talent manager and fashion show producer, recognized for her dedication to empowering young models and promoting African fashion worldwide.
Recently, Mbalenhle Kimberly Manana was honored among the 100 African Women Achievers 2025 at the She Reigns Africa Network Summit and African Women Achievers Award 2025, held on August 30, 2025. This recognition underscores her significant contributions to the fashion industry and her commitment to empowering women across the continent.
As a runway coach and model groomer, Manana emphasizes qualities like confidence, adaptability, and a strong work ethic in aspiring models. In her interview, she expressed her excitement about judging the Miss Tswelopele The Legacy 2025 pageant, which aims to celebrate beauty, talent, and cultural heritage while providing a platform for contestants to showcase their skills and advocate for social causes. “It’s a great pleasure when someone has confidence in you and a sense of trust,” she stated, referring to her selection as a judge.
The following day, Manana will transition to her role as a judge for the Mr and Miss Lesotho Unite Pageant, which aims to showcase the unique talents and beauty of individuals in Lesotho, promoting unity and pride among participants. Her previous experience as chief judge for Mr and Miss Lesotho Tourism in 2022 further solidifies her credibility on the judging panel. Manana’s commitment to nurturing talent and fostering community development aligns perfectly with the values of this pageant.
Judging both events allows Manana to influence a wider audience and contribute to the growth of the modeling industry in Southern Africa. Her presence in these pageants highlights the interconnectedness of the fashion world across borders, fostering collaboration and support among aspiring models from different countries.
The excitement builds for these two significant events, and with Manana as a judge, participants can expect profound insights and encouragement from a seasoned professional in the industry.
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