The desire to make a meaningful impact in her community and empower fellow young women propelled 15-year-old Elaine Engelbrecht to take part in Miss Teen 2024, a crown she recently won in Lüderitz.
The beauty queen told Youth Corner her interest in pageantry is primarily fuelled by a desire to make a positive impact in her community and beyond.
She believes that pageants provide a platform for young women to voice their concerns, raise awareness about important issues, and inspire others to act.
Additionally, her love for fashion and personal expression has led her to appreciate the artistry and creativity involved in pageant competitions. “Moreover, pageantry offers an opportunity to build confidence, develop public speaking skills, and engage in charitable initiatives. Overall, my passion for pageantry stems from the combination of making a difference, as well as celebrating individuality and personal growth,” said Engelbrecht.
Drawing inspiration from the former Miss Teen and second runner-up at Miss Teen International Oriana Ribero and Zoe Karsten, she wants to advocate for what she has started as the prevention of teenage pregnancy, create more awareness about teenage pregnancy, help the affected mothers, and create opportunities for herself to further her education and future.
The beauty queen said she enjoys reading about history, and discovering more about the past. Engelbrecht loves exploring, going to new places, and meeting new people. She is very fond of animals, and has a deep love for the ocean.
“My plans include travelling the world to explore new cultures, experiences, and natural beauty. I envision a life filled with wanderlust, where I continually seek out adventures and push myself outside of my comfort zone. I want to immerse myself in different traditions, learn about diverse lifestyles, and connect with people from all walks of life. Aside from travelling, I also plan on living life to the fullest, creating meaningful connections, and fostering an open-minded worldview. My goal is to make the most of every moment, embracing life’s challenges and opportunities with enthusiasm and resilience,” she said.
She also shared that her career and educational journey have been filled with challenges and opportunities.
“Throughout my schooling years, I found myself drawn to various subjects, particularly science and mathematics. This passion has led me to pursue higher education in the fields of marine biology or astronomy, which eventually will become the foundation of my career,” she said.
She encouraged her mates to work hard, and aim high in life.
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