Chloe Meyer, 15, from Manenberg,d is competing in this year’s Teen Universe South Africa pageant.
The Good Hope Seminary High School Grade 9 pupil, who was nominated by her modelling school, said the competition was more than just about having a pretty face: it also boosted confidence and encouraged community work.
Each participant had to host a market day and raise money for charity. They also had to do a community-outreach programme. Two weeks ago, Chloe handed out soup to 150 Manenberg residents, and this week, she will be teaching five girls to sew and bake.
Last month, she handed over baby caps to Mowbray Maternity Hospital, and she plans to lend a hand at schools for special needs children.
“Beauty to me means being yourself, not only about being pretty. Success to me means achieving something you’ve been wanting to do for a long time,” she said.
Chloe’s mother, Sandra Meyer, said the competition encouraged young girls to believe in themselves and work hard to achieve their goals.
“If we can get sponsors or donations, it will really help. The costs are all from the parents. I feel overwhelmed and nervous. Out of 792 entries, 89 girls were chosen. It is a huge opportunity, but it’s not only about winning but making a difference in other girls’ lives and uplifting the community,” she said.
Chloe’s father, Granville Meyer, said: “This is a good learning experience for her.”
The winners will be announced in Johannesburg on Saturday December 16. If Chloe makes it through this round, she will go on to compete in the international competition.