BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MBABANE – Eswatini’s representative, model Siniketiwe Maseko, has successfully flown the flag of the Kingdom of Eswatini high by securing the coveted title of Miss Teen Africa 2025/26 2nd Runner-Up.
Maseko, who hails from Mvutjini and is the reigning Miss Teen Hhohho Queen 2024/2025, proudly competed with delegates from various African countries at the prestigious competition held in South Africa.
The Miss Teen Africa competition for 2025, themed “Regal Radiance,” ran from December 10 to 15, 2025, culminating in the grand crowning ceremony. Delegates arrived on the 10th for a week of intensive events, including rehearsals, judging interviews, a fashion show, and activities designed to celebrate young African women. Maseko’s achievement, alongside delegates from across the continent, underscores her remarkable talent and determination.
Beyond the overall placement, Maseko’s elegance and cultural pride shone through, earning her two special awards: Best Traditional Attire and Best Congeniality.
In an exclusive interview, Maseko shared that her journey’s success was deeply rooted in the support she received. She expressed immense gratitude to her family and a host of local businesses and entities.
“I am grateful to my parents for being supportive in my journey towards the competition,” Maseko stated. “I also wish to acknowledge all sponsors and supporters, [including] Mr. Johnson, the director of Creativity Platform, Mdzimba View, Ayurvedic Pharmacy in Mvutjini, Delisa, St. Mathias Anglican Church, Coconut FC, my family, Mantenga Cultural Village, Mvutjini Youth, Ezulwini Bucopho (Bongani Mdluli), everyone who voted, Newline Studios Samorah Ph, Prestige Pre-School, and the community.”
Maseko highlighted the professional growth gained from competing alongside her peers from other African nations. She specifically thanked her agency, the Miss Teen director, and fellow models from the Eswatini Creativity Platform Modelling Agency for their unwavering support, stating she “wouldn’t have gone to this level if it wasn’t for their support.”
Maseko views the pageant as a significant stepping stone that has fueled her future ambitions in the industry. “Being with other models from other countries gave me exposure and networking that will help me expand my territory in the field of modelling,” she explained. “I also wish to join another pageant in the future since I have realized that it is possible.”
She also extended special gratitude to Noncedo Mamba, Miss Africa Unite, whose “guidance helped me a lot” throughout the competition.
Looking ahead, Maseko made a solemn promise regarding her reign as Miss Teen Africa 2nd Runner-Up, vowing to use her platform for social impact in Eswatini.
“As I head on as Miss Teen Africa 2nd Runner-Up, I promise to rise up and stand against GBV (Gender-Based Violence) and other bad social issues that most specifically affect women,” Maseko declared. Her commitment indicates a focus on advocacy and community outreach in the coming year, transitioning her title from a pageant victory to a vehicle for positive change.
Maseko’s successful completion with other delegates from across the continent, and her subsequent high placement, serve as a significant source of pride for Eswatini, showcasing the nation’s talent and commitment to fostering young leaders with a vision for social impact.
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Courtesy Pic)
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