Student Crowned 2nd Princess at Miss India South Africa International 2017

BY: .

Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars - these words encouraged UKZN student Ms Kiara Rampaul to compete in her first pageant.

Rampaul was crowned 2nd princess at the Miss India South Africa International 2017 pageant. She also won the Zee TV Miss India SA International Miss Entrepreneur 2017 competition and the sponsors’ award from Standard Bank.

‘It was the first time I strutted down a ramp and my very first pageant. I am proud of my achievement.’

Rampaul, a second year Bachelor of Social Science in Housing student, says she was inspired by her parents.

The Zee TV Miss India South Africa International Pageant gives young women an opportunity to showcase not only their personality and potential but also helps them make a difference in their communities.

‘Through my studies I am keen to help in the development of formal settlements and create a better South Africa for all of us,’ said Rampaul. ‘Women empowerment is a part of this development process and being part of the Zee TV Miss India SA international Pageant allowed me as an individual to gain awareness and to engage in several social issues. The pageant also allowed young women like myself to express views and opinions on a variety of issues, educate other individuals and bring hope for many women out there,’ she said.

Rampaul thanked Standard Bank and the Zee TV Miss India SA Pageant team for allowing her to be part of this ‘extraordinary journey’.

‘The support I got from my family and friends was amazing. Every time I walked off stage, my fellow contestants asked if they could adopt my family. It meant the world to me just having my family and friends there. A big thank you for all the encouragement, support, advice and love.’

Nomcebo Mncube