Hlanganiso Mathebula from Jerome village outside Malamulele has won the title of Best Cooker at the Miss Indoni South Africa Cultural competition. Her achievement highlights her dedication to cultural representation, community leadership, and the preservation of the Tsonga heritage and values.
Mathebula first joined Indoni in 2020, representing the Tsonga kingdom. Although she did not win the title of Queen at the time, she secured the position of second runner-up.
Determined to succeed, she returned in 2024, and through perseverance and faith, she was crowned Indoni Tsonga Queen.
"I am beyond thrilled to embark on this incredible journey as a proud Tsonga Queen. This opportunity is not just a personal dream come true but also a chance for me to honour and represent my rich Tsonga heritage. Showcasing our culture, traditions, and values fills me with immense pride and joy," said Mathebula.
One of her proudest accomplishments at Indoni was winning the Best Cooker award. "Cooking is a vital part of my culture—it's more than just preparing meals; it's about preserving traditions, telling stories, and passing down rituals. I was honoured to win the award with my dish, tshopi (Pumpkin Pap), a traditional favourite."
Mathebula thanked her family, friends, and community for their unwavering support. "Your encouragement has been my guiding light. This journey wouldn't have been possible without your belief in me," she said.