1. Favourite scary movie?
Us and Get Out. The fact that I was really scared watching these movies is the real reason why I enjoyed them so much. I was shocked and entertained!
2. Favourite social media influencer?
Bonang Matheba. She is such a hard worker. She said she’s not an influencer but prefers to be called influential. I get her!
3. Favourite Marvel or DC villain?
Renslayer from the movie Loki is my favourite villain.
Fun fact: the actress who plays her is Gugulethu Mbatha and her father is South African!
4. Introduce yourself.
My name is Nontobeko Zanele Phakathi, a vibrant and enthusiastic 23-year-old from Dobsonville. I’m a student at the University of Johannesburg studying towards a qualification in Information Technology. In my spare time, I do projects that allow me to share my knowledge and resources and anything that allows me to exercise my passion which is to empower young girls around me.
5. Tell us a bit about your background and what your goals for the future are.
I have been a model from the time I watched my first pageant, which was in 2010 when Bokang was crowned Miss SA 2010. I haven’t looked back since then, entering my first pageant – Little Miss Dobsonville in 2011 – which I won at the age of 12. I knew then I wanted to be Miss Universe one day.
6. How do you feel about being selected as a finalist in the Miss Soweto pageant?
I’m super excited for this journey and I feel blessed to be chosen this year. I’m looking forward to a thrilling journey of self-discovery and learning from the women I’ll be walking this journey with.
7. Why do you think you have what it takes to be the next Miss Soweto?
I have an open heart ready to serve with love and respect. My humility allows me to be relatable with my peers, leaders and everyone around me. I celebrate my strengths and acknowledge my weaknesses which allow me to walk confidently in who I am.
I think Miss Soweto should not only be a true representation of the everyday Sowetan girl facing all the challenges society throws at us but she should be graceful about all these and boldly defy all odds – that defines me and I’m excited to represent a place I call home and people who have shaped who I have chosen to be today.
If you would like to see Zanele win the Miss Soweto crown, vote for her on WhatsApp by clicking here: https://wa.me/27871531007?text=Hi
