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From the heart of Mothutlung in Madibeng Local Municipality, 15-year-old Aobakwe Tlhopane is stepping onto the continental stage as a finalist for Miss Preteen Africa 2025 – carrying with her the dreams of a community and the voice of countless women and girls.
Aobakwe, who describes herself as a plus-size model with purpose, began her pageantry journey at Koonstrad when she entered Miss Glamorous Plus South Africa. Despite her nerves, she walked away as the 1st Runner-Up, igniting a fire to pursue modelling further.
“Winning 1st Runner-Up told me I belonged in modelling,” she said. Soon after, she competed at Castle Queens in Letlhabile, where she was crowned Miss Teen Castle Queens, solidifying her place in the modelling world.
But Aobakwe’s journey is about more than crowns and sashes. She is using her platform as a Miss Preteen Africa Finalist to advocate for Gender-Based Violence (GBV) awareness. “I chose GBV because too many voices go unheard and too many stories remain in the dark. I want to be a light that speaks up and stands up for those who feel unseen and unsafe,” she said.
The teenager believes that every girl and woman deserves to feel protected, valued, and free. “Modelling is more than posing for pictures—it’s a way to speak without saying a word. As a plus-size model, I represent confidence in all shapes. As a GBV advocate, I represent strength and justice,” she added.
Aobakwe hopes her story will inspire other young girls in Mothutlhung and across South Africa to pursue their dreams fearlessly while using their talents to make a difference in society.
“This is only the beginning of my journey,” she said, “but I walk with pride, purpose, and power.”
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