Winning the title of Jnr Teen Miss Western Cape was a dream come true for Kathleen Jackson.
The 13-year-old and learner from HP Williams Primary, St Helena Bay was a finalist in the pageant, which took place on Saturday 11 October. “When they announced my name as the winner my heart almost stopped pumping from shock and excitement. I was so honoured that a simple girl like me with no proper modelling experience actually won. It still feels like dream.”
With her new title Kathleen would like to work on a programme to help raise self esteem and confidence of those who have been bullied and told they are not beautiful. “After all, beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. I believe we are beautifully and wonderfully created in God’s image. I also would like to get youngsters my age involved, offering some of their time helping with charity work.”
She added that participating in such a pageant has taught her valuable life skills such as adapting to new situations, grooming and donating to charity.
“It has also given me the opportunity to network with other models younger and older than me. I had the privilege to engage with other models, especially those who have been in numerous pageants. This was my first big one, and the advice I was given by fellow contestants I will forever cherish and share with others who would like to join the pageant world.”
She thanked her coach, Tracy Minnie, for helping her prepare, adding that without her coaching skills she did not think she would have been successful to win. “She had confidence in me right from the beginning when she told my mom I had what it takes to bring the crown home to St Helena Bay.
“A big thank you also to my mom Lunga Jackson for always supporting me. She has been by my side from the beginning. Without her I would have never been able to take part. Lastly, but not least, thank you to everyone who had faith in me and who voted for me. I didn’t win the public-choice award, but I appreciate all the votes. In conclusion I’d like to share my favourite quote from Maya Angelou, “A person is the product of their dreams, so make sure to dream great dreams. And then try to live your dream.”
