On Saturday, October 14, 2023, the inaugural Miss Day Care modelling competition celebrated its first Queen and princesses at the Palmridge Community Hall in Katlehong.
The Miss Day Care Modelling Competition was hosted by the Empire Huis Foundation, founded by Boitumelo Thobejane, a seasoned organizer of pageants. Notably, this was their first-ever daycare pageant, as the organization primarily focused on high schools and teenagers.
Thobejane shared the inspiration behind this project, which revolves around literature and empowerment. “Miss Day Care aims to introduce and promote literature, build confidence in smart young girls, and help them pursue their dreams from an early age,” she emphasized. “Additionally, we seek to celebrate the essential role played by daycare teachers and principals in nurturing these young children.”

The competition featured three daycare centres: Shoba Daycare, Realeboga Daycare, and Born to Shine Daycare. Young girls from these daycares showcased their beauty, intelligence, and skills, modelling in various attires, much to the delight and pride of their parents in the audience.
The competition was fierce, and the judges faced a challenging decision, ultimately crowning the following winners:
- Qaqamba Dish as the reigning Queen.
- Kutlwano Ntjatji as the 1st Princess.
- Alunamda Nzwane as the 2nd Princess.
- Melokuhle Oluthando Maninjwa, the Brand Ambassador.
Thobejane expressed her gratitude to the parents who allowed their children to participate in the competition and her partners, Naugh Media and Sbongile Mthiyane. She acknowledged the significance of the project, particularly since it took shape after the passing of her mother. Despite the absence of sponsors, Thobejane’s determination and support from the community made the event a reality.
In conclusion, the Miss Day Care Pageant not only showcased young talent but also underlined the importance of literature, empowerment, and the influential role of daycare educators in nurturing the potential of children.
By Simphiwe Khumalo