A 21-year-old advocate against gender-based violence, and a pretty face with a string of beauty titles to her name, was chosen as a finalist in the top five of the Miss Soweto 2023 pageant.
Bonolo Motsukunyane, who was born and bred in Welkom, resides in Johannesburg.
In 2020 she was the first princess in the Miss Lejweleputswa 2020 competition, and she can also claim sucess in the sport and in the business arena. She was a provincial netball player, and is an entrepreneur who owns two businesses.
“I am currently studying for a qualification in Transportation Management at the University of Johannesburg,” says Motsukunyane.
She was a director of Miss Monyakeng and also previously the deputy secretary for the Donate A Dress Foundation, a nonprofit organisation (NPO). She was also a model for the Free State Fashion Week 2022.
Miss Soweto took place on 26 November.
“I entered during the year wanting to make a difference in my life and to be the voice and advocate for gender-based violence, using the Miss Soweto pageant as a platform.”
Motsukunyane says it is not only about winning the title, but about the impact she wanted to make in people’s lives, and the changes she wanted to see in her community, being a role model for young individuals.
Among the thousand entries she was chosen as a top 40 finalist, automatically becoming a brand ambassador for White Star. She then made it to the top 20 where she worked with brands like White Star, Revlon South Africa and Kicks SA.
“I appreciated the support I got from people here in Welkom, voting for me and making my dreams a possibility.
“I believe my diverse background and experiences have shaped me into the person that I am today, coming from a multi-cultural family that allows me to express my true self confidently.
“I am passionate about using my platform to make a positive impact,” Motsukunyane says.
