SIPHOFANENI PAGEANT IGNITES YOUTH HOPE

BY NELIWE NGUBANE (INTERN)

SIPHOFANENI — Cheers and excitement filled Siphofaneni High School Hall on Saturday as Bongiswa Nxumalo was crowned the first-ever Miss Siphofaneni, walking away with a E5 000 cash prize and other rewards in a historic community event.

The colourful pageant, hosted by Havilah House Eswatini, started at midday and attracted a large crowd from across Siphofaneni. Community members gathered to witness the crowning moment while enjoying a blend of fashion showcases, poetry and live music performances.

Nxumalo, contestant number six, impressed judges with her confidence, leadership qualities and passion for community development, earning her the top title. Her crowning moment came shortly after 6pm, when tension filled the hall as the audience waited for the final announcement. When her name was called, loud cheers erupted as supporters rushed forward to celebrate with her.

“I want to be more than just a queen. I want to become the voice of the youth in Siphofaneni,” said Nxumalo, describing her victory as life-changing after many sleepless nights of preparation.

She received E5 000, a smartphone, a hamper, an E1 000 clothing voucher and an E500 shopping voucher. Nokuphiwa Gama, contestant number eight, was named first princess and received E2 500, while Sabusiswa Nyirenda, contestant number two, took second princess with E1 500. Additional prizes included driving lessons from M.O Driving School and a year-long skincare package worth E10 000 from iNALA SkinLab in Ezulwini.

Beyond the competition, the event sparked strong community support. Siphofaneni Indvuna Yenkhundla Phiwokwakhe Ngcamphalala pledged E3 300, ensuring each contestant receives E300. Siphofaneni Member of Parliament Nomalungelo Simelane added E300 per contestant, bringing the total to E600 each.

Ngcamphalala praised the contestants’ determination and talent, noting their potential to bring change. He also announced plans for development workshops to help them grow their skills. Simelane encouraged more initiatives like the pageant, saying such platforms help shape the future of young people.

Community members welcomed the event with pride. Sihle Ginindza said it was inspiring to see such activities in the area, while Triphina Gamedze highlighted the positive impact on young people, especially those interested in modelling. Nomathemba Dlamini said the performances brought back memories and showed that local talent deserves wider recognition.

The event also featured lively entertainment, with local artist Sanchiezy keeping the crowd engaged throughout the afternoon.

The Miss Siphofaneni pageant not only crowned a winner but also created a platform for young women to showcase talent, build confidence and inspire change within the community.