A remarkable celebration of empowerment and beauty took place on Saturday, at the prestigious Mmabatho Palms Hotel Casino and Convention Resort, as the Miss North West Exclusive (MNWE) pageant event unfolded in all its glamour.
Founded by Kokeletso Moiloa, a visionary entrepreneur from Ganyesa in the North West Province, the pageant aims to provide a platform for young women to flourish in various aspects of life, fostering self-esteem, confidence and a positive mindset. Moiloa, a 36-year-old who advocates for empowerment and change, emphasised the importance of celebrating positivity.
"Through my foundation, Kokeletso Moiloa Foundation (KMF), I have been engaged in numerous empowerment programmes, usually targeted towards vulnerable individuals. With MNWE, I sought a different perspective to infuse glamour and positivity, steering clear of pain and sadness. Empowerment remains at the core of everything I do," said Moiloa.
She encountered difficulties while working to bring MNWE to fruition, mainly because most participants were newcomers to pageantry. However, Moiloa's steadfast dedication, combined with her ability to surmount challenges related to sponsors, ultimately led to the triumphant realisation of the event. The MNWE event received generous sponsorship from industry leaders like Pure Royal, Glam Up and Brutal Fruit.
The panel of judges included notable figures such as Katleho Lekoko, Hope Katisi and Kea Leburu. At the same time, the illustrious presence of Taahirah Zungu, a pageant sensation with an impressive 18 titles, added to the event's grandeur. The crowning moment arrived, revealing the top three victors of MNWE 2023.
Patricia Couane secured the second princess title and R5 000, followed by Nomsa Mgina as the first princess and got R10 000. The coveted MNWE 2023 title was claimed by Kamogelo Seero, who earned a cash prize of R15 000, a getaway trip, and the honour of becoming the new Face of Pure Royal. Zungu, a shining star in the pageant world, extended a generous offer to the top three achievers, inviting them to join her upcoming fashion show scheduled for October.
Furthermore, she pledged to personally mentor the trio, reflecting the ethos of empowerment that underscored the event. Overwhelmed with joy and a sense of achievement, Seero expressed her gratitude, saying: "I am very grateful at this point. I do not know how I feel, but I feel blessed and know that I deserve this because I worked hard for it. I have worked for this and today it paid off."
During her reign as Miss North West Exclusive 2023, Seero envisions driving change within her community and the broader North West region, focusing on empowering young girls. Moiloa congratulated all participants and the top three winners as the event ended. "Today, you are here because of your dedication and growth. Your hard work has been recognised, and I am incredibly proud of you. I eagerly anticipate witnessing your continued journey," Moiloa said, reflecting the spirit of empowerment that defined the MNWE event.
The Miss North West Exclusive pageant is a beacon of empowerment, positivity, and celebration, leaving an indelible mark on its participants and the community it represents.
