AZOLA NGXANGA: CARRYING THE EASTERN CAPE SPIRIT TO THE NATIONAL STAGE
When Azola Ngxanga walks onto the stage of Miss Qhawekazi South Africa, she carries more than her sash and smile. She carries the pride of the Eastern Cape, the values of Ubuntu, and the dreams of countless young women who see themselves reflected in her journey.
Ngxanga, a passionate sports journalist, describes herself as someone who “lives and breathes the excitement of the game,” but beyond the sports field, she is rooted in purpose, growth, and community upliftment. “I believe in using every platform I step into to uplift others, especially young women from communities like mine. I’m also an advocate for mental health and someone who believes deeply in the power of Ubuntu,” she says.
Inspired by Purpose
For Ngxanga, entering Miss Qhawekazi South Africa was not about chasing a crown, but about chasing growth. “The pageant uplifts women, celebrates independence, and speaks to truth and leadership — values I live by. It’s not just about the crown; it’s about the woman you become while chasing it,” she explains.
Representing the Eastern Cape, she says, is a 0powerful honour. “Our province is rich in culture, strength, and heritage. I want to show the rest of the country the resilience, talent, and beauty that comes from our side.”
Pageant and Principles
Miss Qhawekazi celebrates leadership, culture, and community impact — values Ngxanga embodies naturally. As a journalist, she leads through storytelling; as a daughter of the Eastern Cape, she carries her culture proudly; and through her advocacy and community work, she strives to leave a positive mark.
Her message to young women is simple but profound: “Growth is brave. It’s okay to take up space, to challenge yourself, and to chase your dreams even if the world hasn’t always made space for you. You don’t have to be perfect to be powerful; you just have to start.”
Still, the journey has not been without challenges. Balancing the mental, emotional, and physical demands of pageant preparation tested her resilience. “But I’ve learned to lean into support, pace myself, and remember why I started,” she shares.
Community and Heritage
Cultural pride is a cornerstone of Ngxanga’s identity. “My language, traditions, and background are a source of power — not something to shrink from,” she says. Her community involvement reflects this spirit. She has supported charity initiatives in her area and used sports as a platform to promote mental health awareness, creating safe spaces for young people to speak about their well-being.
She hopes her journey inspires young women from rural and township areas. “Your background does not define your future. I’m just like them — from the township, from a place with limited opportunities — but I chose to keep pushing. If I can do it, they can too.”
Lessons and Inspiration
Ngxanga’s late mother remains her greatest role model, instilling in her resilience and determination. “She was a dreamer who pushed against all odds with unwavering strength. Her values continue to guide me,” Ngxanga reflects. She also draws inspiration from women leaders who “lead with humility, resilience, and a genuine heart for others.”
Her advice to young girls is to believe in their voices and embrace leadership as a journey of service and growth. “Every small step forward is progress. Your dreams matter, and your leadership can change the world.”
Looking Ahead
Beyond the pageant, Ngxanga wants to continue telling powerful stories as a journalist while expanding her advocacy work in mental health and community development. Should she win Miss Qhawekazi South Africa, her first initiative would focus on spreading Ubuntu, promoting mental health, and fostering unity across communities.
As she prepares for the competition, Ngxanga is clear that her journey is not hers alone. “Support can come in many forms — cheering me on, sharing my story, or getting involved in the causes I’m passionate about. Together, we can uplift not just me, but all young women striving to make a difference.”
With her passion, resilience, and vision, Azola Ngxanga is proving that true beauty lies not only in appearance, but in purpose, impact, and the courage to rise.