26/06/2026
Modelspace | 📰💚
Today, on the Modelspace, we have one of the Miss Influence South Africa Finalists, Silindile Melita Ngcobo (21) from Pretoria in Arcadia.
We have the spotlight on the Finalist of South Africa's most powerful pageant that is more than just a pageant but more of a leadership platform that empowers young women to use their voices to create meaningful change in their communities.
"I joined Miss Influence South Africa because I wanted to be part of something bigger than myself. As an education student, I’ve always believed that real change begins with educating, empowering, and inspiring people. This pageant aligns perfectly with my values because it celebrates women who are intentional about making a difference." Said Melita
In our conversation with her, Melita also went on to explain why she joined this pageant and what it meant to her to be on such a platform. She said that her wearing a crown has never been the end goal but her purpose is to use the platform to advocate for young people, encourage self-belief and prove that leadership starts with serving others and Miss Influence South Africa gives her the opportunity to do exactly that.
"This journey is helping me grow far beyond modeling. It is developing my confidence, leadership skills, public speaking, and ability to connect with people from different backgrounds.
As a model, I want to represent more than fashion and photographs. I want people to see someone who carries herself with purpose and uses every opportunity to inspire others. Miss Influence South Africa is shaping me into a woman who can confidently represent brands, communities, and causes that genuinely matter." She added
Melita said she dont believe she will ever reach a point where she says, "Now I have made it" because growth never really stops. However, she feels truly accomplished when her name is associated with impact rather than popularity. She believes that she will see that her journey has been worthwhile when people start to recognize her as someone who used modeling and pegeantry to change lives, mentor young women and leave communities better than she found them.
"I want my journey to remind people that where you come from should never determine where you’re going. Growing up in KwaZulu-Natal and pursuing my dreams in Pretoria has taught me that courage opens doors that fear never will.
I hope young girls will see that they don’t have to fit into society’s expectations to make a difference. They simply need to believe in themselves and remain committed to their purpose.The impact I want to leave is one of hope, education and empowerment. If I can inspire one young person to dream bigger, stay in school, believe in their potential and become a positive influence in their own community, then I know I’ve fulfilled my purpose."
As we closed our conversation with her, Melita made it clear that young women must always live by the zulu saying "umuntu umuntu ngabantu" because it will remind them that True success isn't measured by how many people know your name, but how many lives are better because you were part of the journey.
Article and cover by: Maps Impact
Production Powered by: Kultsha Studios
