Picture: Miss Waterfall SA contestant, Kabelano Letimela/Supplied
By OBAKENG MAJE
15 November 2026 – A young woman from Goodwood, a rural village near Vryburg in the North West, is determined to prove that dreams have no geographical boundaries as she takes her modelling ambitions to the national stage through the Miss Waterfall South Africa competition. At just 21, Kabelano Letimela is carrying the hopes and aspirations of her community as she represents the North West province in a competition that could bring her one step closer to her ultimate dream of becoming Miss Universe.
For Letimela, the journey into modelling was not something she had always planned. In fact, she describes herself as someone who discovered her potential rather late, after people around her recognised her confidence, posture and natural ability to model and encouraged her to give it a try.
“What began as encouragement soon developed into a passion and an opportunity to pursue something bigger. I was encouraged to become a model because people noticed my posture and believed I had the skills and potential. I decided to give it a try and I eventually became a Miss North West semi-finalist before joining Miss Waterfall South Africa.
“Miss Waterfall South Africa is a pageant that welcomes contestants from across the country’s provinces. I am currently the sole representative of the North West province. The competition’s grand finale is scheduled to take place in Cape Town on 12 December 2026, where contestants will have an opportunity to showcase their confidence, beauty, intelligence and commitment to making a difference in society,” she said.
Letimela’s journey is particularly inspiring because she comes from a rural background where opportunities are not always readily available. She lives with her grandmother and uncle and has had to navigate financial challenges, while pursuing her education and modelling ambitions.
“Despite these circumstances, I refuse to allow my background to determine how far I can go. My academic ambitions remain equally important. I hope to pursue a career in civil engineering at Vuselela TVET College’s Taung Campus. I have been upgrading matric marks as I work towards securing an opportunity to further my studies.
“For me, modelling is not simply about beauty, fashion and the glamour associated with pageantry. It is also about personal development, creating opportunities and using my platform to inspire other young women. I want to pursue a career in civil engineering and complete my studies. I have been upgrading my marks, although I have also experienced financial challenges,” said Letimela.
Beyond the runway, she has demonstrated her commitment to community development through charitable initiatives. As part of her participation in the competition, Letimela took part in a charity drive supporting various orphanages.
“I donated sanitary towels to female learners at Kgosithebe Combined School in Austrey village, near Ganyesa. The initiative was aimed at supporting young girls who face challenges accessing essential sanitary products, which can affect their dignity, confidence and participation in school activities.
“My involvement reflects my belief that a beauty queen should be more than just a public figure. She should be someone who understands the struggles of ordinary people and is willing to use her influence to bring positive change,” she said.
Reflecting on her ambitions, Letimela said her greatest dream is to become Miss Universe while ensuring that she completes her education. She also has an encouraging message for young people who aspire to enter the modelling industry.
“My message to those who want to pursue modelling is that they must remain resilient. They should believe in themselves, remain determined and never allow challenges to discourage them. I want my story to empower young people growing up in rural communities. Where you come from should never determine where you can go.
“Coming from a village does not mean that international opportunities are beyond reach. With determination, discipline, confidence and the support of the community, a young woman from a rural village can compete on national platforms and potentially make her way to the international stage,” said Letimela.
Meanwhile, as the countdown to the Miss Waterfall South Africa grand finale begins, Letimela is appealing to members of the public, particularly those from the North West, to support her journey by voting for her.
HOW TO VOTE FOR KABELANO LETIMELA
Members of the public can support Kabelano Letimela by making a monetary deposit into the official Mister and Miss Waterfall South Africa Capitec Bank account.
Bank: Capitec Bank
Account number: 2337949679
Voting reference: WSA_Surname
Supporters should use the prescribed voting reference, inserting the contestant’s surname where indicated. They are encouraged to confirm the official voting instructions and ensure that their contribution is correctly allocated to Kabelano Letimela.
“Every vote and contribution will help strengthen my journey towards the crown,” she concluded.
