Evelyn Machaba (29) from Madabani was crowned Miss Africa South of the Equator 2023 during a function held at the Blue Waters Hotel in Durban on Saturday, 9 December.
Machaba said that she had developed a love of beauty pageants at the age of 10. "Beauty pageants have been my thing since I was young. I love the thrill and influence that comes with beauty pageants," she said.
However, there is more to this accomplished lady than entering pageants. She holds a diploma in interior design from the Tshwane University of Technology, and she is one of the co-founders of an NPO called Imbokodo Femme Events. The NPO's purpose is to give back to the community by empowering young women and teaching them life skills.
"Imbokodo was not an easy initiative to get off the ground, but it has taught me one thing, namely that it can be done. Communities can unite, and women can be empowered. All it takes is for one person to take a stand to create change in their community. The youth from my community have given up hope, and I want to show them that it doesn't matter where you come from; your dreams are valid, and you can achieve anything you want," she said.
Her message to young girls and women from South Africa is simple: "Love yourselves first, and fight for what you want. But remember, fighting doesn't always have to be loud or vocal - it can be as simple as just being silent and choosing to prioritise your peace. This platform has not only empowered me, but it has also caused a ripple effect that has empowered a nation of girls just like me. I hope this title becomes a motivation to them that everything is possible," she said.