BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MVUTJINI – Eighteen-year-old model Siniketiwe Maseko is set to fly the Eswatini flag high on the continental stage after being selected to represent the country at the upcoming Miss Teen Africa 2025 pageant.
Maseko, who currently holds the title of Miss Teen Hhohho Queen 2024/2025, expressed her pride and excitement at being entrusted with the role. Speaking about the opportunity, she said she regarded the moment as a dream realised after years of dedication to pageantry.
“I’m so honoured to represent Eswatini at an international level, especially in one of the most recognised pageants like Miss Teen Africa. I’m grateful that through hard work, I finally fulfilled one of my dreams,” she said.
The young beauty queen believes her values align with what the pageant stands for and is confident that she will represent the country with dignity.
“I think Eswatini should expect nothing but the best from me. I promise to maintain good character and strong leadership skills throughout the pageant,” she said, adding that she hopes to make her country proud both on and off the stage.
For Maseko, participation in pageantry goes far beyond wearing a crown or gaining popularity. She views it as a platform for empowerment, particularly for young women who, like her, have faced adversity.
“My goal is not only to create a better life for myself but to inspire and touch the hearts of many, especially the youth,” she explained.
Raised in humble circumstances, Maseko opened up about the financial and emotional challenges she has had to overcome. She shared how she once struggled to secure school fees and had to rely on assistance to stay in education.
“From being the girl considered disadvantaged among my friends, to not knowing how I would fund my high school and future studies – these are just a few of the struggles I’ve faced,” she revealed.
Despite these barriers, she refused to abandon her passion. Even when faced with criticism that pageantry would interfere with her academic performance, she remained committed and excelled in both areas.
“I received a lot of backlash for taking part in pageantry because people believed it would affect my studies. But through hard work and dedication, I proved that I can flourish in both,” she said.
Looking ahead to the Miss Teen Africa stage, Maseko hopes to use her story to motivate other young women across the continent.
“By joining Miss Teen Africa, I hope to show young girls that it’s possible to succeed in multiple areas of life. You can do anything you set your mind to,” she said.
The Miss Teen Africa pageant will bring together contestants from various African nations, with contestants judged not only on beauty and poise, but on leadership, advocacy, and community impact.
(Courtesy Pic)
