From the moment she could dream, Diara Choudree knew she wanted to make a difference. Today, she’s heading down a path that combines psychology, business, and a deep-rooted desire to empower others.
Fascinated by the complexities of the human mind, 18-year-old Diara Choudree chose to study Psychology, eager to understand what drives people and how she could help them unlock their full potential.
And, as her passion deepened, she set her sights on Industrial Psychology (where psychology meets business) allowing her to combine her love for people with her sharp business acumen. And because ambition runs through her veins, she also envisions launching her own business one day.
But, it’s not just her future plans that bring her joy … she also loves the spotlight. At just 11 years old, she starred in her first international commercial, a Sargento Cheese ad that aired in Canada but was filmed right here in South Africa. Not long after, she landed another for Gaviscon, which made its way to screens in the Middle East.
‘That brief moment in front of the camera sparked something in me. A love for the spotlight, a thirst for adventure, and a dream of seeing the world.’
Fast forward to today, and she’s gracing much bigger stages. One of them was where she was crowned Miss Teen World. A title she holds with immense pride and gratitude. But she’s not stopping there. With aspirations of competing in Miss South Africa one day, she’s ready to take on new challenges, knowing that each step she takes is one step closer to her dreams.
Beyond the glitz, glamour and psychology Diara’s heart lies in empowering young people. Especially teenagers navigating the tricky path of self-discovery.
‘I want to be an inspiration and create awareness for youngsters that it does not matter how or where you start, but it’s the courage to keep striving for more. I want to remind them that they don’t have to try and be someone they’re not. No one can do you better than you. And I am particularly passionate about young teens because this is an important stage in their lives where they are figuring out who they are and who they want to become.’
Through workshops, mentoring, and community service, she’s dedicated to helping the next generation find their purpose, embrace their uniqueness, and chase their dreams without fear.
She’s also actively involved in Service in Motion, a Christian non-profit dedicated to uplifting communities in need. From distributing food parcels in local parks to providing clothing, toiletries, and joy-filled activities for children in orphanages, Diara is committed to spreading kindness wherever she can.
And if that wasn’t enough, she also launched Blessing Bags, an initiative designed to offer tangible help to those in need. Instead of handing out money (which can sometimes be misused) Diara’s Blessing Bags provide essential items like non-perishable snacks, bottled water, hygiene products, and warm clothing. Whether distributed personally, through churches, or at shelters, these little bags of hope remind people that someone cares.
Despite her packed schedule, she always makes time for the things that bring her joy. She’s been dancing since she was a child. Think contemporary, hip-hop, and all kinds of cultural styles. To her, dance is more than movement. It’s an expression of passion, creativity, and pure joy.
And so, when she’s not on stage or working on her initiatives, you’ll find her knee-deep in DIY projects, baking, organising, or even doing nails. And then there’s her favourite moment of the day … watching the sunset. Whether she’s journaling, painting, reading her Bible, or simply soaking in the beauty of the moment, sunsets remind her to pause, reflect, and be grateful.
Diara’s drive isn’t just about achieving personal success. It’s about leaving a legacy. She dreams of financial freedom, not just for the sake of luxury, but to travel the world, expand her charity work, and make an even greater impact. She wants to see different cultures, gain new perspectives, and use her experiences to fuel her mission of empowering and uplifting others.
‘Everything happens for a reason. What’s meant for you will be yours, no one can take away what God has destined for you.’
As she continues to grow, explore new opportunities in the modeling world, and expand her community initiatives, one thing is certain. Diara is a force to be reckoned with. A dreamer, a doer, and a young woman determined to change the world, one act of kindness at a time.
Details: Follow @diara_erica on Insta, @Diara Erica (Miss Teen World) on Facebook and @diara.erica on Tiktok
