A WOMAN, who was abducted and gang-raped five years ago, is currently in the top seven of the Face of Queens With Purpose South Africa, a beauty pageant which also advocates for disabled people.
Ntsiki Kubalo from Protea Glen, Soweto, is a gender-based violence activist who motivates, encourages and helps rebuild the lives of other women and children who have experienced any form of gender-based violence.
Taking us through her recovery journey, the 35-year-old told Daily Sun that after coming back from the hospital where she was treated after the rape, she needed something that would keep her busy. So, she started writing.
“My story was one of the top stories published by the People Opposing Women Abuse in 2018 for their Women’s Writing Project. I later opened my own organisation called 29 Candles of Hope to deal with GBV and help bleeding women and children,” said Ntsiki.
“I wanted to help them reconnect with themselves and the society at large. It’s not an easy journey, but here I am. I’m assigned to it. I’m the voice to the voiceless and instil hope to the hopeless.”
ALSO READ : Actress Terry denies involvement in corruption scandal!
This year, Ntsiki decided to participate in the Face of Queens With Purpose pageant.
It was established by a non-profit organisation called Queens With Purpose in 2019 with the aim to provide support to organisations involved in community-based projects.
It is meant to benefit those who are marginalised in society, including those who are physically and mentally challenged, have learning disabilities or any other condition that impairs they functionality and the needy.
“Since I became part of Queens With Purpose, it has been an amazing journey as I continue to do what I love – working with the community. My passion has always been about the difference I can bring to society, with the aim to adopt five families affected by the challenges of disability,” she said.
Ntsiki added that the journey has had its ups and downs, which taught her a lot and kept her grounded.
“Whether I get the crown or not, my aim is to continue touching hearts and making a difference in my community.
“This is an opportunity I’ll never take for granted. I’m where I am for a good purpose and my intention is to never give up,” she said,
