South Africa will bring 13 tribes to the Miss Born A Star cultural beauty festival in Eswatini, marking a historic showcase of culture, unity, and tourism.
The international pageant, set for September 25 to 27 at Happy Valley Hotel, is expected to feature queens from Eswatini, South Africa, Botswana, and Kenya, blending culture, fashion, and youth empowerment.
Cultural Exchange and Celebration
Pageants Eswatini Director Tony Dlamini said the presence of 13 South African tribes would enrich the competition and boost cultural exchange between participating nations:
“This is more than just a pageant, but a platform for nations to share their traditions and strengthen ties through beauty and culture.”
The festival will feature different categories, including the highly anticipated 18 to 24-year-old division, where Miss Teen, Miss Eswatini, and Miss Culture will compete for the Miss Born A Star title.
The event aims to balance glamour with purpose, while celebrating diversity across the SADC region.
Tourism and Youth Empowerment
Dlamini highlighted that the cultural showcase will enhance Eswatini’s tourism appeal, positioning the country as a hub for international entertainment:
“When visitors come to experience these tribes, they are also discovering Eswatini’s rich heritage and beautiful destinations.”
The initiative was made possible through efforts by Lamgabhi youth leader Wakhile Dlamini, who played a key role in bringing the prestigious festival to Eswatini. Organisers described his efforts as a youth-driven vision that opens doors for future global pageants.
Beyond the pageant stage, contestants will participate in cultural tours and community outreach projects designed to leave a lasting impact in Eswatini. The Eswatini Beauty Pageant Association will also set up a task team to work with the Ligcabholetfu Co-operative and other local partners to ensure successful hosting.
A Growing International Pageant
Miss Born A Star began in South Africa in 2023 and was later hosted in Botswana, quickly growing into a cross-border platform for cultural diplomacy, youth development, and entrepreneurship.
This year’s edition marks the first time the pageant will be held in Eswatini, with the spotlight on September 27 when the grand finale will take place and the new Miss Born A Star is crowned.
Contestants will be judged across multiple categories, blending beauty, confidence, and cultural representation in what Dlamini describes as:
“An unforgettable spectacle of African pride.”
