At just 25 years old, Sinamile Dlamini is preparing to stand on one of the world’s most celebrated stages, the Miss International pageant in Tokyo this November.
Dlamini's story is a powerful testament to resilience, faith, and a young woman's transformation of personal pain into a mission to inspire others.
The beauty queen will represent South Africa in the 63rd edition of the pageant, carrying the nation’s flag for her; she says the honour runs far deeper than a title.
“It’s such an honour to represent South Africa because this moment isn’t just about me it’s about celebrating the richness of who we are as a nation. Our heritage is layered with resilience, culture, and hope, and carrying the flag on a global stage feels like carrying the stories of every South African with me. I want to show the world the beauty and strength of our people while celebrating the roots that shaped me.,” Dlamini tells the Saturday Star.
Dlamini reveals that her love for pageantry began as a child watching Toddlers & Tiaras, captivated by the sparkle and poise of the contestants. But as she grew older, she discovered that the heart of pageantry extended far beyond tiaras and sequined gowns.
“My journey began as a little girl dreaming of being a pageant queen. But I’ve learnt it’s about more than beauty; it’s about pretty hearts and purpose. Pageants gave me a way to reconnect with a childhood dream while I slowly rebuilt my confidence and found purpose again.”
She says her recent victory as Miss International South Africa marks a career-defining highlight.
“The biggest highlight has been earning this National Title, my first national crown, the chance to represent South Africa and the chance to go to Japan not only to learn, but to share our culture with delegates from around the world and to stand among the incredible African women who are all fighting to bring home Africa’s first crown in the 63rd edition.”
Behind her radiant smile lies a story of survival. Dlamini has openly shared her experience of overcoming deeply personal trauma, an ordeal that could have silenced her but instead ignited her mission to help others heal.
“The message I want to share is that no pain is wasted,” she says.
“With the right support and faith, trauma can be transformed into something powerful, a story that uplifts others. I want to remind young people, especially survivors, that they are not defined by what they went through. They are whole, they are worthy, and they can rise again.”
Beyond the pageant stage, Dlamini is building a legacy of service. She is an ambassador for ACT Africa, an organisation dedicated to raising awareness about human trafficking and gender-based violence, issues she says demand urgent attention.
She shares a story from her mentorship sessions that underscores the importance of her mission. “During one session, a young girl told me she was a survivor too, and that hearing me speak gave her the courage to share her own truth. I’ve seen young people realise they can do and be more than their circumstances suggest. Mentorship might not change the whole world, but it can change someone’s world, and that can change the direction of their life.”
In addition to her advocacy work, Dlamini hosts Unbreakable Chapters, a podcast that gives survivors and dreamers alike a platform to share their journeys of resilience and healing.
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za
Saturday Star