The Ultimate Sky in Montana, Pretoria, became a hub of elegance and talent on the 17th of August as 22 semi-finalists competed for the prestigious titles of Mr. and Miss OpaL Students 2024. The highly anticipated event saw 11 young men vying for the title of Mr. OpaL Students and 11 young women contending for Miss OpaL Students, each striving to claim the crown and make their mark in this esteemed pageant.
The Semi-Finalists Take the Stage
The competition featured a diverse group of semi-finalists who brought their unique charm, confidence, and personalities to the stage. The gentlemen competing for the title of Mr. OpaL Students included Tebatso Tsotetsi, Johannes Molobi, Zanda Sbonga Madondo, Thokozani Mnisi, Relebogile Matseke, Dumisani Ndlovu, Kagiso Thatelo, Mandla Tebane, Sphelelo Thwala, Oscar Diraditsile, and Kgaugelo Sasha.
For the ladies, the Miss OpaL Students semi-finalists were Phephile Hlophe, Mpho Matseletsele, Precious Maroga, Tshegofatso Masemola, Lesego Motaung, Karabo Shekeshe, Vicky Mthembu, Mmoni Serima, Omphile Mafoko, Portia Mvulani, and Boitumelo Khumalo. Each contestant brought grace and determination, making the competition an inspiring showcase of talent.
A Night Filled with Inspiration and Elegance
The event kicked off with a prayer, setting a respectful and inspiring tone for the evening. The Opal Students Naturena Choir followed with a captivating opening performance, setting the stage for a night filled with elegance and excitement. The charismatic program directors for the night, Maropeng Matshaba and Basetsana Koboyankwe, kept the audience engaged with their lively and charming hosting style.
The esteemed panel of judges, comprised of notable figures in the pageantry and fashion world, had the challenging task of evaluating the contestants. The judging panel included Mrs. Refilwe Fosu-Amoah, Mrs. Michelle Coetzee, Mr. Nelson Nhlapo (the reigning Mr. OpaL Students 2023), Dr. Maria Mphahlele, and Mrs. Lolo Phala. Their expertise and experience added to the credibility of the competition and made the selection process rigorous.
The Finalists and Special Guests
After a competitive elimination round, the top five finalists for Mr. OpaL Students were announced: Tebatso Tsotetsi, Oscar Diraditsile, Sbonga Madondo, Mandla Tebane, and Oscar Diraditsile. For Miss OpaL Students, the top five were Precious Maroga, Portia Mvulani, Mmoni Serima, Karabo Shekeshe, and Phephile Hlophe. These contestants advanced to the final stage, where they delivered impressive answers during the Q&A session, showcasing their intelligence and passion.
The competition featured a fashion show segment, highlighting the skills of Opal Students designers Ofentse Nhlapo and Nyeleti Surprise Manganyi, who dressed the contestants in stunning outfits that dazzled the audience and judges alike.
Among the over 450 attendees were distinguished guests, including former Muvhango actress and current Isiphetho Destiny writer Shonisani Masutha, Lucia Mphahlele (Ms. Universe Official 2022-2023), Mokganyetsi Mashele (Mrs. Grand International Ambassador 2022), Mrs. Naomi Mosiane (Founder of Mrs. Township South Africa), Mrs. Mosima Machaba, Mrs. Sandra Segopolo, Mrs. Boipelo Segopa, Thembi Measela (Face of Queens with Purpose), Faith Sibuye (Mrs. North West), and Serati Phaleng (Miss Heritage 2024). Their presence highlighted the significance of the event and added to the grandeur of the occasion.
A Night of Spectacular Performances
The audience was treated to mesmerizing performances by ANDO, Micah Da Music, Double Impact, and the Opal Students Naturena Choir, each act adding a special touch to the evening. The performances showcased not just the contestants’ talents but also celebrated the arts and culture, making the event a holistic experience of beauty and artistry.
Announcing the Winners
As the event reached its climax, the much-awaited moment arrived – the announcement of the winners. The results were as follows:
Mr. OpaL Students 2024:
– Winner: Tebatso Tsotetsi
– 1st Runner-Up: Oscar Diraditsile
– 2nd Runner-Up: Mandla Tebane
Miss OpaL Students 2024:
– Winner: Precious Maroga
– 1st Runner-Up: Mmoni Serima
– 2nd Runner-Up: Portia Mvulani
In addition to the main titles, a special award for the Public Choice was presented to Vicky Mthembu, who garnered 1,597 engagements (likes, shares, and comments) on Facebook and Instagram, showcasing her popularity and support among the audience.
A Memorable Night Thanks to Our Sponsors and Host
The evening concluded with joyous celebrations, prize-giving ceremonies, and a sense of accomplishment for all the participants. The event was supported by several generous sponsors, including Shonisani Braids, Style and Image, Prudent, Lavo Wines, Beauty by Dercia, Kmile Models, Fetch Your Life Magazine, Ntsoaki Sibiya, Didintle Jewellery, and the headline sponsor Bono Property Group, whose contributions made the night possible.
Special recognition goes to Mrs. Patricia Tshitema for her excellent hosting, ensuring the event ran smoothly and providing an enjoyable experience for all attendees.
The Mr. and Miss OpaL Students 2024 pageant was a night to remember, filled with glamour, talent, and inspiring moments. It not only celebrated the achievements of the contestants but also highlighted the importance of youth empowerment and community involvement. Congratulations to the winners and all who participated for making the event a grand success!
Watch Highlights of the Show:
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