More than a crown: Young women step into leadership

Miss Kanana Park will return for its third annual edition on 30 October, with this year’s event placing greater emphasis on leadership, purpose and community service.

The venue is still to be confirmed.

Organiser and Miss Kanana Park 2024 reigning queen Ayanda Buthelezi said the pageant aims to give young women more than a stage and a crown.

“Miss Kanana Park 2026 is more than a crown. Our goal is to celebrate purpose, talent and service,” she said.

Contestants will take part in mentorship sessions, public-speaking training, community outreach projects and activities focused on mental wellness and youth entrepreneurship.

The judging panel will consider confidence, communication, leadership, compassion and community involvement.

“Beauty opens the door, but character and impact keep it open,” Buthelezi said.

The winner will serve as an ambassador for Kanana Park and participate in school visits, youth talks, mental-health and gender-based violence awareness campaigns, clean-ups, feeding schemes and charity initiatives.

Buthelezi said the pageant was created to give young women a platform to be seen, heard and supported.

“When a girl sees someone from her own street doing great things, she starts to believe that she can do it too,” she said.

However, Buthelezi said funding, limited resources and securing consistent support remain some of the pageant’s biggest challenges.

The organisers have partnered with local businesses including Lazy Streetwear, Ghetto & Proud, Swank Mpahla and D&S Trophies, but are still appealing for additional sponsorships and contributions of any kind.

Young women aged 13 to 25 may enter, including those from outside Kanana Park.

Entries and sponsorship enquiries can be made on 064 010 1527 or iamwtlazy962@gmail.com.