Miss Teen Eswatini has secured its first major financial boost from a South African company, which pledged E10 000 towards the pageant ahead of this year’s Umhlanga (Reed Dance) Ceremony.
The sponsorship was announced during the official launch of the pageant held at the Manzini Arts and Culture Centre. Speaking at the event, Director of Miss Teen Eswatini, Penelope Maziya, confirmed the development but held back on revealing the sponsor’s name, citing pending formalities.
Maziya also shared that negotiations are underway with another company to donate 30 emahiya (traditional cloths) to be worn during the cultural event.
The pageant, which targets girls aged between 13 and 18, is being positioned as a platform to promote youth empowerment and cultural appreciation. The Eswatini National Council of Arts and Culture (ENCAC) officially launched the initiative, with its CEO Stanley Dlamini officiating the ceremony.
Dlamini told guests that the pageant is designed to ensure that the winner is crowned before the annual Umhlanga event, allowing her to represent the country during the widely attended cultural celebration.
Maziya added that, beyond the age requirement, applicants must also show good behaviour. Application forms are now available at local arts centres, with the submission deadline set for 12 July.
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