Young, ambitious and passionate about making a difference, these inspiring North Coast teens are stepping into the spotlight. We meet the girls behind this year’s Miss Ballito Teen pageant and discover what motivates them, where they love to spend time and the big dreams they’re chasing.
Riya Hariparsad, 13 – Student, model and dancer
For Riya, Miss Ballito Teen is about far more than glitz and glamour. Inspired by its “Pageant with a Purpose” ethos, she loves that the platform gives young women an opportunity to make a difference in their community. She describes herself as compassionate, focused and resilient, qualities she says help her balance school, dancing and charitable campaigns. A passionate animal lover, Riya dreams of becoming a paediatrician and working in rural communities where children have limited access to medical care.
Eryn Robert, 14 – Student
Eryn was drawn to Miss Ballito Teen because of its focus on giving back to the community. Adventurous, brave and energetic, she enjoys being outdoors and spending time with animals. There’s also a sporting side to this teen that people may not expect – she’s a big rugby supporter! Eryn says her mother is her greatest inspiration because she never gives up, even when times are tough. Looking ahead, she has her sights set high: her biggest dream is to become a flight attendant for Emirates Airlines and see the world.
Alexia Simionato, 16 – Student
Alexia entered Miss Ballito Teen as a personal challenge – an opportunity to grow, meet new people and connect with others who want to make a positive impact in their community. Resilient, positive and outgoing, she’s also a keen gym-goer and particularly enjoys training with friends. Her biggest inspiration is Tashya, one of her sponsors, whose energy and passion for helping animal organisations have made a lasting impression on her. Alexia shares that love for animals and dreams of one day helping animal shelters around the world.
Jamie van Niekerk, 13 – Student
Jamie was inspired to enter Miss Ballito Teen because she loves helping her community and sees the pageant as a chance for girls to discover both their inner and outer beauty. Confident, funny and outgoing, she admits there is a more sensitive side to her that people may not always see – she gets upset easily and feels things deeply. Her older cousin and iconic actress Marilyn Monroe are among those who inspire her, both for their confidence and individuality. Jamie’s favourite North Coast spot is simple: any beach will do!
Donné Venter, 17 – Student
Donné entered Miss Ballito Teen to challenge herself, build her confidence and inspire other young girls to believe in themselves. Kind, determined and confident, she says she can actually be quite shy when meeting someone for the first time – although once she’s comfortable, her outgoing personality comes through. Her greatest inspiration is her mum, whose strength and kindness have taught Donné to work hard and never give up. Her favourite North Coast escape is Thompson’s Bay Beach, where she loves the beautiful surroundings and the peaceful ocean.
Lexi Voorhout, 16 – Student
For Lexi, Miss Ballito Teen is an opportunity to use a prominent platform to uplift her local community, advocate for meaningful causes and empower young women to lead with purpose. Her greatest inspiration is her aunt, who balances family, work and community leadership with grace. Her biggest dream is to create a safe outdoor adventure camp and weekend activity farm where children can connect with nature, care for animals and simply enjoy being kids – away from social media and the internet.
What is Miss Ballito Teen?
Miss Ballito Teen gives young women from the Ballito community an opportunity to develop confidence, leadership skills and self-belief while using their platform to make a positive difference. The pageant places an emphasis on community involvement and charitable initiatives, encouraging finalists to look beyond the crown and become role models who actively contribute to their communities.
Details: missballito.co.za; IG: @missballitoteen
