In an era where school activities are increasingly dominated by academics and sport, a growing movement in Vhembe District is quietly reviving something often overlooked: the power of pageantry to build confidence, pride and self-worth among learners.
The Mr & Miss Vhembe District High Schools pageant is leading that charge, repositioning school pageants as platforms for personal development rather than mere displays of beauty.
Rofhiwa Ramunyandi was crowned King, while Mukonazwothe Magodi was crowned Queen at the Mr and Miss Vhembe District High Schools event held at Makhado Community Hall in Biaba on 4 April.
The initiative was born out of founder Miss Zwonaka Paris Makhado’s own experiences of bullying and exclusion during her school years. It now serves as a response to those challenges, offering learners a safe space to express themselves and embrace who they are.
“This is not about being the most beautiful. It’s about giving every learner a chance to feel seen, heard and valued,” she said.
The pageant includes schools across Vhembe’s four clusters, namely Nzhelele, Vuwani, Hlanganani and Soutpansberg, bringing together hundreds of learners from diverse backgrounds. Through auditions, workshops and boot camps, contestants are guided through a journey of self-discovery and growth.
“Not every child is good at sport or academics, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have value. Pageants give them a platform to shine in their own way,” said Makhado.
Judging criteria reflect this shift in focus, with emphasis placed on leadership, personal story, confidence and authenticity rather than physical appearance.
The impact has already begun to show, with learners returning to their schools more confident, expressive and engaged, both socially and academically.
“We also emphasise education. We want learners to understand that confidence and academic success go hand in hand,” said Makhado.
Despite financial challenges and limited sponsorship, the pageant continues to grow. Organisers are now looking to expand the concept beyond Vhembe with the planned launch of a national platform, Miss Teen Elite South Africa.