As blossoms bloom and new dreams take flight, we shine a light on a youngster whose courage, confidence and kindness earned her one of the country’s most dazzling teen titles.
Meet Karabelo Tubane, the newly crowned Queen of South Africa Teen 2025 in the 14 to 17-year-old category, and a bright rising star from the Upper Highway whose ambition is as big as her heart.
At just 14, Karabelo has not only stepped into the national spotlight, but she’s doing it with grace, humility and purpose. The pageant event, hosted by the South African Beauty Modeling Academy, took place at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Umhlanga, where finalists from all over South Africa competed for the crown. And while the tiara may glitter, it’s Karabelo’s glow from within that truly lights up the room.
“I wanted to try something new and get outside of my comfort zone,” she says when asked why she entered the competition. “But I also knew this platform would help me use my voice for those who don’t have one.”
A Grade 9 learner at St Mary’s DSG, Karabelo calls Gillitts home. Though this was her very first pageant, she made a bold entrance and left an unforgettable impression. Her favourite moment?
“The fittings for all my different outfits,” she grins. “I especially loved my traditional attire which was inspired by the Zulu and Xhosa cultures. It made me feel confident and proud of both my African heritage.”
She credits her mother, Kabelo, and her modelling coach, Katryn, for guiding her through the journey.
“They supported me through everything. Without them, I wouldn’t have this title,” she shares.
When the final announcement was made and Karabelo’s name echoed through the venue, her family and friends erupted with joy – and a bit of disbelief. “They were proud, ecstatic and a little shocked!” she laughs. “It was my first pageant, after all.
Pageants may look glamorous, but being on stage isn’t always easy – especially for a newcomer. So how does Karabelo manage the nerves? Her answer is refreshingly relatable. “I think of the reward I’ll get after,” she says. “Like a well-done treat! That helps me stay calm and enjoy the moment.”
Describing herself as fun, kind and vibrant, Karabelo says what makes her smile the most is “seeing other people happy.” Whether it’s family time, pamper sessions (think fresh nails, massages and a new hairstyle), or a chilled Appletiser, she’s all about positivity and wants to spread that to others.
For Karabelo, being a queen isn’t about dresses and titles. “It’s about uplifting my community,” she says earnestly. “That might mean helping feed the homeless, donating or inspiring others. I want to live an impactful life.”
That mindset is what inspired her idea for a personal outreach initiative she would love to start called Hope in a Hamper. It’s a campaign through which she is hoping to deliver food and sanitary products to less fortunate communities. “I want people to know their circumstances don’t define them. Nothing is impossible with God.”
That mindset sparked her idea for a personal outreach initiative called Hope in a Hamper – a campaign to deliver food and sanitary products to underserved communities. “I want people to know their circumstances don’t define them. Nothing is impossible with God.”
Karabelo has big dreams and the determination to match. “I’d love to have my own business, to model for top designers both locally and overseas, and one day, I’d really love to act on TV.” Acting, in fact, is one of her hidden talents. “Not many people know this, but I used to take drama classes in Grade 4 and 5 – and I did really well!”
She balances school, hobbies, and her new role with the help of a strong support system – especially her mom. “She helps me stay on top of things and manages my time,” Karabelo says.
Of course, being a queen doesn’t mean she doesn’t enjoy the fun stuff, too! When it comes to TikTok, she’s allowed a little monitored time on social media, and says there are lots of trending videos she loves. “The Zenzele dance challenge is definitely one of my favourites right now,” she laughs. And, when asked if she could have any superpower? “Time travel – to the past and the future!”
If she could swap lives with anyone for a day, it would be Elosie Dufka, a young, successful businesswoman she admires. And what’s always in her handbag? “My phone – of course!”
As for her favourite treat? “Pizza over ice cream, any day!”
Karabelo’s message to other young girls is clear and empowering: “You can do anything you put your mind to. Don’t let your circumstances define you. Most importantly, be yourself.”
She says staying true to herself comes down to the values her parents have instilled in her. “Doing what’s right even when no one is watching, and understanding that every choice has a consequence. I also try to stay grounded by reading God’s word and doing my devotions.”
As Spring awakens the world in colour, Karabelo is proof that real beauty blooms from within. With a bright spirit, a bold heart and a crown to match, this young queen is a reminder that it’s never too early to make a difference.
