By Sbongile Sokela
Lifa Ntuli from Kwa-Thema is using fashion and community events to make a difference in the lives of young people. He is the founder of Black Fusion Modelling and Entertainment Agency, a non-profit organisation that has been active since the late 1990s. While the agency began with beauty pageants, it has grown into something more meaningful, an initiative aimed at reducing crime and promoting positive values among the youth.
“We are not only focusing on modelling,” says Ntuli. “We are also working to reduce the crime rate among the young people we live with here in Kwa-Thema.”
On July 26, Black Fusion hosted the second annual Miss Ekurhuleni Best High School Wearer 2025 event. The goal was to restore pride in wearing proper school uniforms and encourage discipline among learners. Ntuli explained the inspiration behind the event.
“The reason behind the event is that I’m trying to bring back the culture of uniforms at school,” he said. “Back in the day, you could easily recognise school children by their full uniforms. These days, you see colour-blocking socks, tight pants, and learners walking around during school hours without proper uniforms. We want them to be easily recognisable and proud of their school identity.”
This year’s event was also held in honour of Mowland Sibande, a former winner of Mr Best Uniform who has since passed away. “We are celebrating his life and dedicating the event to him and his family,” Ntuli shared.
The competition drew participation from various schools across KwaTsaDuza, including Tholulwazi, Phulong, Nkumbulo, Sibonelo Esihle, Thandi Sibeko, Thulip, M.O.M and Tlakula High Schools.
The winner of Miss Ekurhuleni Best High School Wearer 2025, Fortunate Nkambule, could not hide her excitement. “I’m so happy, I didn’t expect it because I was scared, but I’m so happy and proud. The hard work paid off,” she said.
The first princess runner-up and Miss Personality title went to Sanelisiwe Mhlanga, while the second princess runner-up was Keamogetsoe Motsoeneng. Khanyisile Tshabalala walked away with the Miss Confident title.
Participants walked away with certificates and winners walked away with a range of prizes, including bursaries, computer courses, cash prizes, beauty spa vouchers, perfume hampers, gift vouchers, certificates, crowns, and sashes.
Looking to the future, Ntuli hopes the event will grow and gain even more support from teachers, parents, and the wider community. “Hopefully next year, principals and parents will better understand the purpose and give us full support,” he said. “Our goal is to partner with local fashion designers in Ekurhuleni. When we select models, they’ll receive uniforms made by these designers. It’s also a way to create job opportunities for local talent.”
Black Fusion is also preparing for its next major event, Miss Little Starlets from Ekurhuleni. Registration will open during the first week of August and close on October 3. The event is scheduled to take place on November 9, with categories for ages 5 to 25. The registration fee is R250 per child, and prizes will include items such as bursaries from Boston.
To connect with Black Fusion Modelling and Entertainment Agency, use the following contact details:
Facebook:Black Fusion Modelling Agency
Email: [blackfushion@gmail.com](mailto:blackfushion@gmail.com)
Phone: 063 095 9521
