As South Africans, we have to embrace every good thing the apartheid laws failed to acknowledge.
One of those things is women empowerment. Even if we still have a long way to go, our democracy has done a lot to empower women.
I wrote this after watching the crowning of the new Miss SA on Sunday night.
Unlike what most people think, the pageant is not only about displaying women’s beauty and bodies.
It is more about showing that one can be blessed with both beauty and brains. I was inspired by the personal stories and journeys the contestants travelled before making it into the top five.
As a man, I think other men can also be inspired.
The contestants represented equality and inclusivity, thanks to our democracy.
Congratulations to Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters for winning the title.
My daughter and sisters were given hope. I trust the same applied to all other ambitious women.
The winner should remember that the title is not only about her but the country as a whole.
Our sisters and daughters will look up to her as a role model.
Being crowned is not only about enjoying the privileges of travelling around the world.
It is about motivating and inspiring others. I hope all the projects and programmes on her “to do” list are a success and benefit the many people. Congratulations to our new Miss SA!
Melato Mphahlele, Zebediela