By Matṧeliso Phulane
Lerato Masila has scooped the Miss Lesotho 2023 title.
The 21-year-old beauty from Botha-Bothe Halebetla was crowned on Saturday at a glittering event in Maseru.
Majane Leshoele from Leribe was the first runner-up while Tlhokomelo Sepetla from Botha- Bothe came third.
The event was graced by the presence of Queen ‘Masenate Bereng Seeiso.
In an interview with theReporter, Masila said she did not have a lot of expectations when she entered the competition.
However, she was inspired upon learning that the contest required passionate and hardworking young women who could initiate projects in their communities.
She was soon at work, educating young women on sexual reproductive health rights, unplanned pregnancy, and the dangers of abortion.
Masila’s project motivates young girls and women to use contraceptives since they are convenient and available for free.
“My journey was not easy; I struggled to get enough money for my project and some people who pledged to help me could not respond in time,” she recounted.
Masila said she aims to proceed with her project to help more people.
The beauty queen is currently studying for a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) at the National University of Lesotho.
She said her academic work was not really affected at first but things changed when she was voted in the top 10. By then, she was preparing for her exams and she had to learn to multi-task and allocate time for rehearsals for the pageant.
“I remember missing two rehearsals because of the exams,” Masila noted.
Masila said her victory still felt like a dream.
“I think it will take a few more days to sink in my mind,” she said, adding that it was an honour to win such a huge title.
Masila urged aspiring beauty queens to prepare themselves mentally and be ready to work hard. They also need to have enough money because pageantry requires a lot.
“They should also understand the requirements of the competition to ensure that they adhere.
“They should also adequately plan things such as wardrobe, hair and makeup on time so that they don’t rush at the last minute,” she said.
The stunner further advised aspiring beauty queens to have plan B in case things do not work out their way to avoid last minute disappointment.
Masila said she has learnt a lot of things during the contest such as work hard, determination, and staying focused.
To the losing contestants, she said she is grateful to have gone through the journey together with them, even though it was not an easy one.
“What I can say to them is that I am thankful to have gone through this journey together. It was not easy and I know everyone wanted to win but the fact that we were supportive of each other and having a sisterhood relationship will keep us going.
“This is not the end of their life; rather they should not be discouraged or lose hope to pursue their dreams in pageantry. Not winning should motivate them to achieve bigger things in life,” Masila added.
