Lebowakgomo, Limpopo – Zamanje "Za" Mongalo, a pageant queen hailing from Limpopo, is using her personal experiences of trauma to deliver a powerful message of advocacy and empowerment to young women across South Africa.
The 45-year-old from Lebowakgomo, who holds the title of Mrs Independent International South Africa and is the outgoing Mrs Independent International 2nd runner-up, has transformed her past suffering into a driving force for change. Za, a survivor of gender-based violence (GBV), faced traumatic events both as a child and later in life.
"It’s an experience that happened when I was very young, around six or seven years old in KZN. It was not only one experience but a double experience. Later in life, while I was at tertiary studying, I was kidnapped in Pretoria," Za shared with Daily Sun.
Za's sister, Thandeka Mongalo (40) from Lebowakgomo, confirmed the kidnapping allegations. Thandeka said she found out on TV as Za appeared on a segment of a talk show hosted by Felicia Mabuza speaking to GBV survivors. She said that's when she confronted Za. "It was a devastating moment for us, and we cried,” she said.
She explained that these experiences became the catalyst for her advocacy. "Pageantry has been part of my healing process. It helped me find my voice, and now I use that voice to help young girls and women who have been through similar experiences," she said. Competing on a global stage in Manila, Philippines, Za has shared her story of survival and resilience, hoping to inspire others to break free from the cycle of violence.
Za's message is specifically aimed at young girls and women from disadvantaged backgrounds who may feel trapped by their circumstances. "My advice is to speak up. Keeping silent only allows the cycle to continue. I encourage survivors to seek support, whether from family, friends, or professionals. You are bigger than what happened to you," she said.
Za also emphasises the critical role of education and self-development in empowering women. "For many girls in the township, opportunities are limited. But education is a powerful tool. It opens doors and connects you to people who can help you heal and grow. If I had been stuck in a rural area with no access to school, therapy, or mentors, I might not have made it this far," she said.
She encourages women to persevere, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges. "If you want to fly, you have to let go of the things that weigh you down. That means seeking healing, even when it’s difficult. Your circumstances don't define your future," she said.
For Za, her pageantry journey is about far more than just beauty; it's about empowerment and personal growth. "When I first joined, I had no idea how much I'd learn. Pageantry helped me unpack my own story and understand my purpose. It gave me the courage to step forward and share my journey," she said.
Her participation in pageants has been instrumental in rebuilding her confidence after years of struggling with the trauma she experienced. "The first time I shared my story, I was in tears. But today, I can stand in front of people and speak about it without breaking down. That shows me how far I’ve come in my healing journey," she said.
Although Za is stepping down as Miss Independent International South Africa, her mission is far from over. "This platform has helped me amplify my message. Winning titles is great, but the real impact comes from using these opportunities to create change," she said.
Za is also a strong advocate for increased support for women in pageantry. "Pageantry is not just about looking good in a dress, it's about advocacy, confidence, and leadership. Many women struggle to get support from their families and communities because people don’t see the value in it. But I’ve learnt lessons that I wouldn’t have found in a book. It’s a platform for real impact," Za added.
Za Mongalo's story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of using one's voice to advocate for change. She is a shining example of how personal trauma can be transformed into a powerful force for good, inspiring countless women to speak out against gender-based violence and pursue their dreams.
