Being awarded the title of Miss Ballito is about so much more than just being crowned a beauty queen. It’s about community, growth and giving back. As entries open for this year’s pageant, we caught up with 2019 winner Juiliana Huisamen.
In the past nine years since its inception, the annual Zimbali Rotary Club Miss Ballito fund raising pageant has generated more than half a million Rand for various charities on the North Coast. Apart from being a channel to raise funds for charity, the pageant organizers have used the project as an opportunity to develop and empower the 12 young finalists who compete by providing them with educational workshops, life coaching and inspirational mentorship. We met up with 2019 winner Juiliana.
Please tell us a little about yourself
I grew up in Ballito where I still live with my family. I finished matric at Haven Academy last year and decided to get some work experience before I start studying law in 2021. I absolutely love ocean life, especially surfing and bodyboarding. At the moment I work as a receptionist at Secrets Beauty Spa in Ballito where I’m learning so much about beauty and being a part of a team.
What prompted your decision to enter Miss Ballito?
My family actually encouraged me to enter. I saw it as a new journey and opportunity to have fun and make new friends.
Tell us about your Miss Ballito experience.
The interview (my first actual interview ever!) was extremely exciting and really not as scary as I thought it would be! Things I really enjoyed were the early morning beach photoshoots, having the opportunity to go to some exciting events and working on our community projects, which was an eye-opening experience for me. I made friends with the finalists and I believe that together we really did make a big difference! The crowning evening was like a fairy tale come true!
Tell us the community projects you worked on.
For my community project I chose to help an organization called Haven of Rest. It is a home for orphans and the elderly as well as a rehab facility and a Hospice. I helped out by collecting food, clothing and kitchen appliances for the home and gave them my time and love. I really enjoy making a difference and seeing others happy!
Why would you encourage other young girls to enter Miss Ballito?
It is a beautiful journey, definitely worth experiencing. If you have a passion for empowering our youth and making a difference in our community you should definitely enter! Details: To enter Miss Ballito email: [email protected]
Photograph: Barry Bowditch
