Latest news with #PearlMathebula
The Citizen
28-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
Cappie wins international title
POLOKWANE – Capricorn High School's Pearl Mathebula has made South Africa proud after being crowned Miss Teen Model International 2025. The Gr 12 learner clinched the prestigious title during the final held in Lima, Peru in June, outshining contestants from across the world. Pearl received a hero's welcome last Wednesday when she returned home via OR Tambo International Airport, greeted by supporters, fellow learners and members of the Capricorn High School community. Speaking to Review, Pearl said while the moment felt overwhelming and exciting, she had great belief in her success. 'Ever since I was crowned Miss Teenager South Africa, I committed myself to this journey. I worked hard, stayed disciplined, and kept prayer as my foundation. Being the only black participant in the pageant made me feel unique. I embraced that and it worked to my advantage.' She highlighted the intense preparation required for the competition, including long hours spent practicing in heels at home and studying previous pageants to prepare for the judges' questions. 'It wasn't easy, but the experience taught me resilience,' she said. Pearl said she wants to use her title to launch the Pearl Mathebula Foundation, a platform aimed at uplifting young people from disadvantaged backgrounds. 'We may not be able to change the world all at once, but we can change the world for one person at a time.' Despite the demands of pageantry, Pearl has continued to perform well academically, balancing school and extracurricular commitments. She credits her support system for helping her cope. 'It's important to speak to teachers, coaches and mentors about what you're going through. You'll be surprised how much support is available,' she said. Capricorn High School principal Lucas Chuene praised Pearl's achievement, describing her as a role model and a beacon of hope for many. 'Her self-confidence and determination have inspired our learners. She has proven that where you come from or your financial background should never define your future.' He recalled her confident address to learners during assembly before her departure, where she boldly declared her goal to win. 'Pearl has shown that with passion and perseverance, anything is possible. She has lifted the Capricorn flag high and written her name into our school's history,' said Chuene. He also extended his gratitude to Polokwane Mayor John Mpe, sponsors, the school governing body, and parents for making the journey to Peru possible and for welcoming Pearl home in true celebratory spirit. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
26-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
SA's Pearl Mathebula makes history at Miss Teen Model International
From Limpopo, reigning Miss Teenager South Africa Pearl Mathebula was crowned Miss Teen Model International 2025 at an event in Peru, South America, on June 15. Mathebula impressed an international panel of judges with her poise, confidence and eloquence during a highly competitive pageant featuring young ambassadors from around the world. Her journey began with her win as Miss Teenager South Africa last December, where she stood out for her modelling potential, intelligence and commitment to youth empowerment. ALSO READ: Miss Arising Stars crowned in Emdeni Her latest title marks a historic first for SA in the Miss Teen Model International competition. 'I am deeply honoured and grateful,' said Mathebula. 'Representing SA and Limpopo on this stage has been a dream come true. 'I hope to use this platform to inspire other young women to pursue their goals with courage and kindness.' The Miss Teenager South Africa organisation congratulated Mathebula, celebrating her as a symbol of empowerment and cultural pride on the global stage. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
TimesLIVE
19-06-2025
- Entertainment
- TimesLIVE
Miss Teen International celebrated by fans at OR Tambo
Newly crowned Miss Teen Model International, Pearl Mathebula, was celebrated upon her arrival at OR Tambo International Airport on Wednesday, just before the Proteas arrived. Arriving at the airport, the 17-year-old said her win was an overwhelming moment because she was the only black person in the competition. 'I was doubting myself, thinking they wouldn't pick me because I'm black and I don't speak Spanish but the fact that I made my country proud was a special moment,' she said The airport was quiet for most of the day but was soon transformed into a hive of activity when Mathebula arrived just before the world Test cricket champions. . Polokwane mayor John Mpe and Pearl's mother, known as Tholapi, celebrated along with the Proteas and the young beauty queen. The Miss Teen Model International winner was presented with a bouquet of flowers as she was escorted into the crowd. 'We want to thank the organisers, Miss Teen South Africa, for giving her the opportunity because it's only through you that we were able to see Pearl's talent,' said Mpe.
The Citizen
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Citizen
17-year-old Pearl Mathebula wins Miss Teen International in Peru
Mathebula participated in the international teen pageant after winning Miss Teenager South Africa in late 2024. Most South Africans were still mesmerised by the Protea Fire on Sunday, but 17-year-old Pearl Mathebula hoisted the flag as she was crowned Miss Teen International in Peru on the same day. Mathebula, who hails from Makotopong, in Limpopo, took the coveted crown ahead of Perú's Luciana Henriquez, who was the first runner-up, and Ángela García from Venezuela, who was the second runner-up. Miss Teen International is the brainchild of Marina Mora, its international director and organiser. Mathebula participated in the international teen pageant after winning the South African version of the teen crown in late 2024. ALSO READ: Miss World to crown new queen this weekend: Here's where and how to watch Mathebula's perseverance Mathebula won Miss Teenager South Africa in 2024 after being unsuccessful in the previous year, where she reached the top 10 of the 2023 edition. 'I'm very proud; it shows that my hard work has actually paid off at the end of the day,' said Mathebula in 2024 during an interview with Newzroom Afrika. The pageant-winning teen only started competing in pageantry competitions in 2022. 'Last year [2023] was my second pageant. I wasn't disappointed when I ended up [in the] top 10.' She got into pageantry from following her interest in her appearance from a young age. 'I loved modelling when I was very small. I always wore my mom's heals, I love dressing up, doing makeup, so I think that's how I knew modelling was meant for me. My mom said 'focus on school, and then when you're in high school, you can focus more on modelling',' she said. Mathebula is an advocate for body positivity. NOW READ: Miss World 2025 – Zoalize Jansen van Rensburg wins World Designer Award for Africa
