From Mrs South Africa to founder of Miss Polo Universe Africa, she’s redefining pageantry as a stage for intellect, leadership, and unapologetic African beauty.
Two years ago, South Africa cheered as Palesa Matjekane was crowned Mrs South Africa, a title that would go on to shape her life in ways she never imagined. Today, she isn’t just a former queen—she’s a visionary, an entrepreneur, and the powerhouse behind a brand-new beauty platform, Miss Polo Universe Africa. With grace and grit, she’s proving that a crown is never the end of the story, but rather the beginning of a legacy.
“Winning Mrs South Africa was truly transformative. It gave me a national platform, expanded my network, and deepened my purpose. It wasn’t just about the title, it was about the doors it opened for me to lead, serve, and inspire. I’ve grown as a woman, leader, and entrepreneur, and it’s empowered me to launch initiatives like Miss Polo Universe Africa that align with my passion for women’s development.” Palesa says this with the kind of confidence that only comes from someone who knows that her story isn’t just about her—it’s about the countless women she hopes to uplift.
At the heart of her vision is a deep belief in the power of pageantry. For Palesa, pageants are not simply about beauty; they’re about empowerment.
“Pageants offer more than just a stage—they offer mentorship, exposure and personal growth. For many women, it’s their first step into leadership, advocacy or entrepreneurship. These platforms can be life-changing.”
It is upon this ethos that the Miss Polo Universe Africa was established, a platform designed to take African women to a global stage with purpose and authenticity.
“The inspiration came from a desire to celebrate African women on a global stage in a way that highlights not just their beauty, but their intellect, heritage and contributions to society. Africa is filled with powerful, visionary women whose stories deserve to be amplified. Miss Polo Universe Africa is a space for that.”
She’s clear about the mandate of the Miss Polo platform: beauty with purpose.
“Miss Polo’s core mission is to connect beauty with purpose. We aim to empower young women through education, cultural exchange and social impact. The hope is that each contestant walks away not just with a sash, but with new confidence, a vision for her future, and the tools to make it happen.” Unlike traditional pageants that stop at glamour, this is about giving women tools for transformation.
“What sets Miss Polo apart is our emphasis on substance. We’re not only looking for a face to represent a brand—we’re nurturing leaders. Our focus on education, global impact, and cross-cultural collaboration gives contestants opportunities that extend far beyond the typical pageant experience.” With this fresh direction, Miss Polo isn’t just another competition, it’s a movement.
Her boldness has already attracted heavyweight partnerships, including a collaboration with Royal Dubai. “The partnership with Royal Dubai came from shared values—innovation, excellence and empowerment. Through mutual connections and aligned visions, a collaboration formed organically. Royal Dubai’s commitment to global influence and elegance made them an ideal partner for what Miss Polo represents.”
The partnership also signals the global reach of her vision—African beauty and leadership, elevated with international flair.
But how does she measure success? “Success for us is about impact. We’ll measure it by the personal growth of the contestants, the reach of our advocacy campaigns, and the long-term projects that are birthed through this platform. If our contestants leave inspired to make a difference in their communities, we’ve succeeded.” It’s a refreshing view that centers women’s journeys rather than just a crown moment.
Palesa herself wasn’t always a “pageant girl.” She laughs when she recalls, “Not at all! In fact, I never imagined myself in pageantry. But once I stepped into it, I realised how much more there is behind the scenes—personal development, advocacy and influence. It completely shifted my perception.”
So, what qualities will Miss Polo Universe Africa be searching for in its queens? “We’re looking for authenticity, emotional intelligence, resilience and purpose. We want women who know who they are, what they stand for, and are eager to use their voice for good. Charisma is great but character is key.”
And of course, beauty. But for Palesa, beauty is a radiant mix of inside and out. “To me, beauty is about alignment—when your inner light matches your outer presence. I focus on self-care, gratitude and rest. Of course, I maintain a skincare routine and stay active, but it’s really the joy and peace I cultivate from within that radiates most.”
Her message is clear: beauty is powerful, but it’s even more powerful when it carries purpose.
“Pageantry has evolved—it’s no longer just about appearance. It’s about platforming purpose-driven women, encouraging leadership and fostering self-belief. Especially in regions where women’s voices are still finding their place, pageants provide a powerful stage for visibility and empowerment.”
Her closing words land like a rallying cry for every woman, everywhere: “To every young woman out there: your dreams are valid, and your voice matters. Platforms like Miss Polo Universe Africa exist to help you stand tall in your truth. Don’t wait to be chosen—start by choosing yourself.” And with that, she proves that the true beauty of a crown lies not in how it sits, but in what it inspires.
