At just 21, Mabuli Munei from Vondwe village near Thohoyandou is making her mark in the pageant world, driven by resilience, faith and a commitment to uplifting her community.
Munei began modelling in 2022, entering several pageants without success. It was only on her ninth attempt, in 2024, that she finally broke through.
“My journey has been a wild ride,” she said. “Each experience has shaped me into the person I am today. It has taught me resilience and that every ‘no’ gets me closer to the right ‘yes’.”
Inspired by her cousin, Mpundu Pfarelo, Munei credits faith as the anchor behind her persistence. “She is my rock, and her faith in God motivates me to keep pushing,” she said.
Her growing list of titles has boosted both her confidence and sense of purpose. Beyond the crowns, she has embraced her role as a voice for young people, encouraging them to believe in their dreams.
Munei is preparing to compete in the Mr and Miss Youth Polokwane pageant, a platform she sees as a way to amplify her impact. As one of the few contestants from a rural background, she views her roots as a strength.
“Being from a small village and representing Venda in a city space makes me unique,” she said.
In 2025, she launched Edufashion, a campaign that makes education more appealing by donating medals and stationery to learners.