City resident Kgaogelo Makgoba, a 24-year-old educator and advocate for education, has earned a spot in the top 12 of the Miss Intercontinental South Africa pageant. Her journey is defined by resilience, a commitment to education, and a passion for empowering young women. Kgaogelo Makgoba, a dedicated educator, actress, theatre practitioner, broadcast journalist, and writer, has secured her place in the top 12 of the prestigious Miss Intercontinental South Africa competition. At just 24 years old, this city resident has become a beacon of inspiration, advocating for education and female empowerment.
Makgoba’s journey to the top 12 was not without challenges. She attributes her success to her resilience and perseverance, qualities that have been crucial in overcoming obstacles. “There were moments when I was unsure of how to tackle the challenges ahead,” Makgoba shares, “but my refusal to accept defeat pushed me to give my best in every task. Through God’s grace and the strong will He instilled in me, I have reached the finals.”
Beyond the physical demands of pageantry, Makgoba emphasizes the importance of mental and emotional preparation. She dedicated significant time to ensure she was mentally resilient and emotionally grounded, crucial traits when under the scrutiny of a highly critical audience. “Pageantry demands more than just physical presence; it requires you to be mentally resilient and emotionally grounded,” she explains.
One of the most profound realizations Makgoba gained from her experience was the power of women. Being part of the top 12 opened her eyes to the strength that women inherently possess, despite societal pressures that often diminish their voices. She states, “Being in Miss Intercontinental has shown me that women are powerhouses with voices capable of changing the world.”
Makgoba’s passion for education extends beyond the classroom. She founded the initiative “Mind the Gap” under the Kgaogelo Makgoba Foundation, aiming to bridge the gap between education and real-world opportunities. Her platform in Miss Intercontinental allows her to advocate for this initiative, striving to make education truly transformative for young learners.
Her journey is deeply personal and culturally rich, as she draws inspiration from her upbringing in a township known for its ethnic diversity. Makgoba believes that this diversity is not just a feature to be tolerated but a force that unites and strengthens communities.
As she moves forward in the competition, Makgoba is committed to staying true to her individuality. She has learned the value of embracing her unique qualities rather than comparing herself to others. This approach has given her a profound sense of confidence, which she considers her greatest asset in the competition.
Makgoba’s ultimate goal is to win the national title and make history by becoming the first black woman to win the international Miss Intercontinental crown. However, her mission extends beyond personal achievement. She aims to empower young girls to uplift one another, challenging the culture of competition with a message of unity and mutual support.
Her message to the world is one of self-love and self-acceptance. Makgoba believes that recognizing and embracing one’s worth is the foundation for living a fulfilling life. She hopes to inspire others, particularly young women, to cultivate a strong sense of self-worth and pursue their dreams with confidence and determination.