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0 commentsA Durban South Africa teen, Lavanya Levisa Govender, has done her community proud as she walked away with the prestigious and coveted title of Miss Teenager Universe South Africa 2024. The grade 10 pupil defeated 70 contestants at the finale at the Sibaya Casino in Durban.
The excited teen said, “The minute I was chosen to compete in Miss Teen Universe South Africa, my preparation started. There were many aspects of the competition that we as delegates had to meet, for example, public choice votes, charity awareness campaigns, public appearances and presentations, and interview segments. All of these were reviewed right up until the final.”
She shared that she has been through ups and downs but prayer, her loving family, the Miss Teen Universe South Africa Organization, and the countless supporters and well-wishers throughout the duration of the competition kept her reassured and ever-motivated.
“This pageant has empowered me to stand up and be the voice that can be heard- inspiring, uplifting, and motivating the younger generation to know and realize that your dreams can be a reality and to remain focused so that you can achieve. I have encountered and overcome several challenges during my journey as a delegate. Over the last few weeks of the competition, we had basically all the water pipes stolen due to looting in the area but nothing has stopped me from focusing on being the very best version of myself,” affirmed Lavanya.
Lavanya who has been modelling since the age of seven, said: "My dad suggested modelling. He felt it would boost my self-confidence. I entered my first pageant, Little Miss India South Africa, in 2018. I am now a professional model and I want to pursue it as a career. I aspire to hit the catwalk of Milan as a runway model.''
She said her dad, Sagaren, a spiritual leader and motivation coach; mom, Porsha, a salon owner; and sister, Tarika, a media studies undergraduate, had always supported and motivated her.
"They have encouraged me to strive for the best and to never give up. My strength also comes from my prayer and worship, and I am inspired by Mother Teresa. I hope to one day establish centres worldwide to inspire, uplift, and provide support to people just like the footprints left behind by her."
“This crown I bring back to all of you, South Africa, as a token of all the love, support and encouragement I have lovingly received from everyone. I promise to make all of you proud as I travel to Indonesia as an ambassador and representative of our country. I will announce more details of my preparation sessions and plans soon. I thank God and each and every one of you for allowing me the honor of being your Miss Teenager Universe South Africa 2024,” excitedly announced Lavanya.
Lavanya said she advocated for women's and children's rights. "I support a non-profit organization and distribute sanitary towels in and around my community to restore school girls' respect and dignity. I'm also involved with giving hope and strength to children, who are cancer victims. I wish to continue these drives as children are the next generation."
"I will be reflecting our spirit of ubuntu to everyone across the globe. I am extremely excited about this journey and hope to make my fellow South Africans proud by bringing home a victory,” said Govender.
She is preparing to compete in the global competition in Indonesia in September.
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