On June 16, 2024, as part of Youth Day celebrations, North Coast Radio had the pleasure of hosting Miss Silindile Makhunga, a finalist in the Miss KZN Queen competition and an advocate for self-awareness among young people, especially young girls.
Silindile Makhunga, a 28-year-old from Dumisani Makhaye Village near Empangeni, began her education at Mertoun Combined Primary School and completed high school at Khombindlela High School. She furthered her studies at Rosebank College in Durban, where she earned a Diploma in Journalism. Currently, she is volunteering as a basic assistant pharmacist at Queen Nandi Hospital.
Miss Makhunga’s journey in the Miss KZN Queen 2024 competition, a modeling contest held in Durban open to all young women in KwaZulu-Natal, reflects her desire to realize her potential, boost her self-confidence, and enhance her communication skills. She believes that women who aspire to self-dependence and emancipation should build themselves on these strengths.
In an interview with North Coast Radio, Miss Makhunga shared that her motivation for entering Miss KZN Queen was to challenge herself and serve as a role model for other young women in her community. She hopes her participation will inspire them to find motivation and purpose, encouraging them to take care of themselves and never give up.
Miss KZN Queen not only focuses on beauty but also supports mental health wellness and advocates for mental health awareness. Miss Makhunga, as an advocate for mental health awareness, HIV/AIDS, and self-awareness, aligns her values with the pageant’s mission.
Reflecting on Youth Day, Miss Makhunga expressed her gratitude to the youth of 1976, acknowledging their sacrifices that paved the way for today’s youth. She appreciates the freedom of speech and the freedom to choose how to live their lives, opportunities that were unavailable to the youth of 1976. She emphasized that today’s youth can express themselves through various forms, including music, thanks to the efforts of the 1976 generation.
To participate in the Miss KZN Queen pageant, entrants need to send a picture using their phone, pay an entrance fee, and wait for a response confirming their eligibility, according to Miss Makhunga.
Miss Silindile Makhunga’s story is a testament to the power of self-awareness and the impact of positive role models. Her journey continues to inspire young people, especially girls, to pursue their dreams and embrace opportunities for growth and empowerment.
