On 23 August 2025, The Ultimate Sky in Montana became the stage for one of the most anticipated student pageants of the year: the Mr and Miss Opal Students 2025 Grand Finale. The event was a resounding success, bringing together young aspiring models, community leaders, creatives, and supporters to celebrate talent, confidence, and empowerment.
The evening was steered gracefully by the charismatic MCs, Basetsana Koboyankwe and Katlego Selepe, whose vibrant energy kept the audience engaged throughout the night. A distinguished judging panel consisting of Kopano Mothibi, Refilwe Fosu-Amoah, Mojabeng Senekal, Minki Thokoane, and a surprise judge, Lolo Phala, had the difficult task of selecting the winners from an impressive group of contestants.
The program featured electrifying performances that set the tone for the night. From the soulful voices of the Opal Students Choir and Matshepo Makgopa, to the rhythm of the Alex High School Marimba Group, the artistry of SARIBA, the dynamic moves of UTM Dance Productions, and the flair of Beauty Bee, the stage came alive with creativity and culture.
Fashion also took center stage with breathtaking designs showcased by Antonio Kgabutle Maluleka, S’phiwe Matiwane, Nkanyiso Siyabonga Mathenjwa, Ika Pheladi Virginia, and Surprise Nyeleti Manganyi. Each designer brought a unique perspective, adding depth and artistry to the competition’s Opening and Evening Wear rounds.
The competition followed a structured yet empowering format. Contestants began with the Opening Round, a platform for self-expression and creativity that built self-awareness and communication skills. The Creative Wear round encouraged innovation and individuality, helping contestants showcase their talents and identities. The evening concluded with the Evening Wear round, where participants reflected on their personal journeys, exuded elegance, and articulated their aspirations — an exercise in public speaking and goal setting.
Beyond glamour, the event embodied principles of community development. Contestants engaged in experiential learning, collaborative work, and mentorship, all of which nurtured growth, confidence, and leadership skills. Many participants shared how the journey helped them discover their strengths, aligning with the philosophy of asset-based community development (ABCD), building on the talents and resources that already exist within individuals and communities.
The night culminated in the crowning of the new Mr and Miss Opal Students 2025, along with the announcement of the 1st and 2nd runners-up. Cheers and applause echoed through the venue as the winners stepped into their new roles as ambassadors of youth empowerment and creativity.
This unforgettable evening would not have been possible without the support of generous partners and sponsors, including Opal Students Foundation, Bono Property Investment, Naked_i Trendz, Pageant Compass, KMile Models, Style & Image, Prudent Shoes, Zwashu Manufacturing, Beauty by Dercia, Ntsoaki Sibiya, Shonisani Braids, and Sun Malt Trios. Their contributions underscored the value of partnership and collaboration, fundamental to sustainable community development.
The Mr and Miss Opal Students 2025 Grand Finale was not just a pageant — it was a movement that celebrated beauty, creativity, and unity, while also equipping young people with skills and confidence to make an impact in their communities.
MR AND MISS OPAL STUDENTS 2025 WINNERS:
MR OPAL STUDENTS 2025- BONGANI XABA
MISS OPAL STUDENTS 2025- NOTHANDO SIKHONDE
MR OPAL STUDENTS 2025 1ST RUNNER UP- DUMISANI JUNIOR NDLOVU
MR OPAL STUDENTS 2025 2ND RUNNER UP- MUSA DEON MBETHE
MISS OPAL STUDENTS 2025 1ST RUNNER UP- NIKITA MASHININI
MISS OPAL STUDENTS 2025 2ND RUNNER UP- CHERISE MARTIN
MOST CREATIVE TALENT WEAR AWARDS:
– NELISA MAKAULA
-NHLETELO AMBER MALULEKE
PUBLIC CHOICE AWARDS:
-BONGANI XABA
-NOTHANDO SIKHONDE
SPIRIT OF OPAL STUDENTS AWARDS:
-NHLETELO AMBER MALULEKE
-NOTHANDO SIKHONDE
