Commonwealth Pageants South Africa is looking for the next teen title holder, and 16-year-old Daniela Gasser from Bryanston High wants to win. She has been selected as one of the top 24 finalists in this year’s competition. The grand finale takes place at the Lyric Theatre at Gold Reef City on 29 August 2014.
The pageant empowers women with knowledge to bring about change to communities in need. The winner will represent South Africa at the International Miss Teen Commonwealth Pageant in London in November 2014. All 53 Commonwealth member states are invited to send their representatives to compete for the prestigious title.
“My main and only reason, really, for entering Miss Teen Commonwealth is that I share a love and a passion for people,” said Gasser. She wants to be a voice for those who have not yet found their inner strength.
“I think it is important to lend a helping hand where I can and to empower people around me to be the change they would like to see in their own lives,” added Gasser. “I come from a humble yet proud home filled with love and support.
“I have learnt a precious lesson in life, that if you want something you have to go out there and make it happen.”
Gasser plays first team hockey, does first aid, runs cross country, plays cricket and swims for her school. She is also the vice chairperson of Leaders in Action.
“We just completed our Debutantes and Squires fundraising programme for charities,” she added. “Outside of school I participate in modelling at Figures Bryanston and with all that said, there is still time for socialising.”
This year the pageant will support the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital Trust. She said, “I have been warned of the work that needs to go into the pageant and the support required for our chosen charity, the Nelson Mandela Children’s Trust, and I willingly embrace the challenge. My mum always says if you want something done, give it to a busy person.”
The pageant judges include Marilyn Ramos, Miss South Africa 2012; Isidingo actor Stephen van Niekerk; TV presenter Nadia Beukes; dancer and seasoned pageant judge Adele Loots; and the current president for the Public Relations Institute of Southern Africa, Solly Moeng.
To help Gasser win the 2014 Miss Teen Commonwealth South Africa pageant, she needs as many votes from the public as possible. To support her, SMS “Daniela Gasser” to 42 899. Each SMS costs R3 and a percentage of this will be donated to the Nelson Mandela Children’s Hospital Trust.
Details: https://www.sacommonwealthpageants.co.za
