Kroonstad’s Dr Maesala Manis has become a semi-finalist for Mrs South Africa 2025 after bravely submitting her application for the pageant.
Originally from Heilbron, she now resides in Kroonstad and believes that with God Almighty’s support, anything is possible. Dr Manis is particularly drawn to the pageant’s focus on empowerment, personal transformation, and the opportunity to make a significant impact.
The core mission of Mrs South Africa is to equip women with leadership and communication skills through various workshops, brand-building sessions, and mentorship. These experiences help participants discover their inner strength and amplify their voices for positive change.
Dr Manis aims to utilize this platform to raise awareness about mental health, specifically for children facing intellectual and learning challenges, along with their caregivers.
She aspires to showcase to children that success can be achieved regardless of one’s background or where they come from.
Having been raised in Phiritona, Heilbron, Dr Manis completed her education at Bhekilanga Intermediate School and Sediba-Thuto Secondary School before attending the University of Pretoria, where she earned her PhD in Educational Psychology.
She describes herself as reserved and shy, yet she actively seeks to step out of her comfort zone. As an advocate for servant leadership, Dr Manis prioritizes the growth, development, and well-being of individuals and communities.
She has served as a lecturer at the University of Pretoria and contributed to a research study on visual impairment, which led to the establishment of a postgraduate diploma in visual impairment studies—the first of its kind in South Africa.
Currently, she works as an Educational Psychologist at the Department of Education and also as an e-tutor and academic supporter part time. The grand finale of Mrs South Africa will take place in November.
“I hope to use this platform for psychoeducation on the subject of mental health, particularly of children experiencing intellectual and learning barriers as well as their parents and/or guardians.” Dr Manis emphasized.
#BeTheFirstToKnow
