Rishantha Naidu, a dedicated human resources professional with 35 years of experience, has been named one of the Top 30 finalists for the 2024 Mrs South Africa title.
The announcement, made at the Theatre of Marcellus at Emperors Palace in Gauteng on Friday, 5 July, marked a significant milestone in Naidu’s journey in modeling and being actively involved in CSI projects as well as community work.
She said: “What started with a simple request from my mom to enter after watching the finale was supported by a dare from my husband which pushed me to look into the platform and discover that it is more than a beauty pageant.
“I was inspired by previous contestants as I related to their stories and was led to believe that I too, can inspire others. I am determined to shift the internal narratives and give hope to women alike. This year’s hashtag #yourtimeisnow was a clear indication that there is no better time than the present and that I am ready to embark on this transformational journey of a lifetime. I am determined to grow and develop myself to do the same for others and shine my light as far as I can.”
Mrs South Africa is an empowerment programme to transform married women aged 25 to 55 into powerful leaders and forces for positive change. The pageant creates a supportive environment wherein contestants work together, learn from one another, find support, and grow their personal and professional networks. Speaking about her experience as part of the Mrs South Africa sisterhood, Naidu said: “We have forged such strong bonds that will carry us throughout our lives.”
Joani Jacobs, CEO of Mrs South Africa, said the programme received a record number of applicants in 2024, making the competition fierce. She said the judges faced a difficult task in selecting the winners from a strong group of contestants.
“This year’s Top 30 represents some of South Africa’s most incredible, inspirational women. We are proud to walk this journey beside them as they have pushed themselves to break through their limiting beliefs and discover just what they are capable of. They have taken to each challenge laid before them with ease, and they truly embody the spirit of strength, positivity, and grace that define Mrs South Africa. We look forward to watching them take the final steps in their self-development journey, and making their mark as formidable female leaders and social advocates,” said Jacobs.
