In a compelling blend of beauty, brains, and faith, Miss Cosmo South Africa Lebohang is redefining what it means to be a modern beauty queen. Recently representing South Africa at the Miss Cosmo International pageant in Vietnam, Lebohang brings a unique combination of academic excellence and spiritual groundedness to the world of pageantry.

Currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Human Resources Management at the University of Pretoria, Lebohang's academic journey includes an honors degree in Labor Relations Management from Northwest University and a master's degree in Human Resources Management. Her educational achievements challenge traditional stereotypes about beauty pageant contestants.

"Pageantry is a space of self-discovery," Lebohang explains. "It truly tests your limits and forces you to optimize your full potential." During her recent competition in Vietnam, she made a bold statement about South African identity through her choice of hairstyle, sporting a striking afro that celebrated her cultural heritage.

Beyond the glamour of pageantry, Lebohang is making meaningful contributions to society through her NPO, the ABC Community. The organization focuses on empowering young females to better articulate themselves, develop their personal brands, and build confidence. The initiative has since expanded to include sustainability projects.

Her journey in pageantry began following Zozibini Tunzi's influential reign as Miss South Africa. "There was a big time for everyone, with her famous statement of seeing ourselves represented in her," Lebohang recalls. After initially not making it in Miss South Africa, she channeled her energy into founding the ABC Community. She later returned to compete and became a finalist in Miss South Africa 2023 before taking on her current role as Miss Cosmo South Africa.

What sets Lebohang apart is her unwavering commitment to her Christian faith in an industry not typically associated with religious devotion. "With everything, it's God first," she affirms. "I pray each and every day... I pray that God is reflected through me." This spiritual foundation, supported by what she describes as her "prayer warrior" mother, has been crucial during international competitions. Her experience at Miss Cosmo International in Vietnam left a lasting impression. "The first thing I noticed about Vietnam was obviously the feeling of it, the weather. It was very, very humid," she shares. "But with this heat, we also had an additional warmth, which was the people. The people of Vietnam are super kind and loving and caring, and they truly want you to feel at home."

Looking to the future of pageantry, Lebohang revealed that a Mr. Cosmo competition is in development, though not yet officially launched, indicating the industry's evolution toward greater inclusivity.

For aspiring pageant contestants, Lebohang emphasizes the importance of intentionality and faith. "Pray about the things that you want to do and be intentional when it comes to the obedience to follow through with your plan," she advises. "Be very disciplined and diligent with your journey and the process of getting to wherever it is that you want to go."

Through her multifaceted achievements and grounded approach, Lebohang exemplifies how modern beauty queens can be powerful advocates for education, faith, and social change while celebrating their cultural identity on the global stage.