PAGEANT STRENUOUS - MISS ESWATINI CONTESTANTS

By Dudu Dube | 2022-11-23 

Some of the girls who did not make it to the top 10 of the Miss Eswatini pageant are still hoping to make a difference.

Sakhile Mdluli and Miyanda Mahlangu said they had learnt a lot and their experiences were empowering.

However, Mahlangu said being part of the pageant was hectic and strenuous.

“It was hectic and strenuous mostly because we were not engaged in activities, programmes or any form of outreach in communities and lastly, because there weren't enough funds. Every session or meeting one would have to cater for all of the logistics. So there was not much to experience. Nonetheless, it was a bit eye opening, on the part of pageants and Eswatini as a whole,” she said.

Mahlangu said funding was one of the major challenges that could dampen the idea behind pageants.

“Firstly, we have so many ideas as Emaswati and initiatives we would want to start but zero funding. This makes it difficult to establish something which you would want to help and grow Emaswati. Secondly, people are supportive as long as you market your ideas and give them a reason to be right behind you.

“I experienced this when I was campaigning for votes on the ground. I got more than votes, as I networked, received random advices and met people who've unlocked opportunities outside the pageant which I wasn't aware of. There are honestly a lot both the pros and cons,” she explained.

When asked if she had other plans in the pipeline, she said she was looking forward to her graduation.

“Personally, the first goal I have for this year is to graduate from college! I also plan or relocating soon! It's about time! To a different country of course. I want to continue with my studies and broaden my horizons on my future career. I would really have loved to leave the country having started an initiative which would aid and grow Emaswati,” she added.

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Mahlangu said she was not sure if she would be joining the pageant again.

“Not quite sure, it would depend on how the pageant is structured next year and honestly if there's one thing I detest, is not winning or achieving something I had set my mind on. So that would also be a reason to bounce back. Hopefully fingers crossed my initial plans work out first,” she said.

Sakhile Mdluli said her journey was exciting and challenging at the same time. She said the experience had taught her patience.

“I learnt to be patient, even if things do not go your way or as your wish, you're still worth it. Not making it to Miss Eswatini top 10 didn't mean I wasn't good enough but I believe that God's timing is different from ours, I don't not feel bad about the judges decision.

I also learnt that life on its own is a journey with many curves but any curves that you come across shouldn't stop you from pushing harder and trying to be the best version of yourself,” she said. Mdluli said she would be focusing on her studies and her business.

“I am currently focusing on my studies and my other side hustlers because the goal is to change my life, so not winning that pageant doesn't make me a failure in any way,” she added.
Mdluli said she had not considered joining the pageant next year.

Miss Eswatini 2022/23 crowning will be held on Saturday at Sharma House, Ezulwini.

Tickets to the crowning will cost E350, including access to the after party. The theme of the event is ‘Bridgeton Experience’.

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