Ayanda G Thabethe is set to represent South Africa at the Miss Cosmo international pageant in Vietnam, bringing a powerful message of purpose and advocacy.
Thabethe, who previously placed in the Top 24 at Miss Supranational 2023, is not just competing; she is championing the initiative Sustain Her, which addresses period poverty by transforming discarded textiles into reusable menstrual products. This initiative is a collaboration with the University of Johannesburg’s Department of Fashion.
Ayanda Thabethe’s Mission at Miss Cosmo
As she prepares for the pageant, Thabethe emphasizes her commitment to showcasing South African designers. She aims to highlight the creativity and craftsmanship of local talent, including designers like Patrick Ferguson Designs and Emberman Official. Her goal is to create a connection between the audience in Vietnam and the rich stories behind each garment.
Thabethe’s journey in pageantry has been transformative. She expresses a stronger sense of self and purpose, focusing on meaningful advocacy rather than mere competition. Her involvement with Sustain Her reflects her dedication to impactful community service.
Key Aspects of the Sustain Her Initiative
The Sustain Her initiative, developed in partnership with Love Our City, aims to combat period poverty by providing reusable menstrual products to girls in need. This project not only addresses a critical issue but also leverages academic expertise and community engagement to maximize its impact.
Thabethe’s role in this initiative underscores the importance of recognizing and supporting existing efforts that create meaningful change. By adding her platform and voice, she hopes to amplify the reach of this vital work.
Upcoming Steps for Ayanda Thabethe
- Participation in the Miss Cosmo international pageant in December 2026.
- Collaboration with South African designers to showcase their work on an international stage.
- Continued advocacy for the Sustain Her initiative and its mission to tackle period poverty.
Ayanda Thabethe is not just competing; she is making a statement for South African women on the global stage.
