DURBAN - KWAZULU-NATAL Miss SA Top 10 finalist Lalela Mswane has described her journey in the national competition as an “eye-opener” that proved she possessed more courage than she ever gave herself credit for.
The 24-year-old model, dancer and LLB graduate from KwaSokhulu, in Richards Bay, said she was extremely excited, but also in a state of disbelief, about making it to the top ten.
“I have learnt that I am capable of achieving anything I set my mind and heart to. I have been courageous enough to pursue this dream. I literally screamed in delight for about a minute!” she said.
“I was hopeful, as one always is, but I did not expect it at all. The exact moment was a bit of a blur for me. I was late to a dental appointment, so I was very anxious. When the call came, my heart skipped a beat. I am still in awe.”
She opted for an intimate “gratitude dinner” celebration with her mother and sister at home.
“A moment I eagerly await is stepping on to the Miss South Africa stage for the first time, on the live final night, and announcing: “Good evening South Africa, I’m Lalela Mswane. This would be mind-blowing because the 7-year-old me will be affirmed for dreaming so boldly.”
She established the Lalela Mswane Foundation in June 2020 to provide support for young South Africans from underprivileged backgrounds, who have struggled to reach their full potential.
“If I become Miss SA 2021, I’d use the platform to expand the influence of the foundation and focus on merging school syllabi and skills. This means providing kids with skills that help them transition from school into life outside of school. This initiative will be called #BeReady.”
Daily News