Teen beauty queen sparkles for City of Diamonds

AT JUST 17 years old, Rethabile Hope Maroane has captured not only a prestigious crown but also the hearts of her province. Born and raised in the historic “City of Diamonds”, Kimberley, the Boshof Combined School learner was recently crowned Miss Teen Universe South Africa Northern Cape, and her inspiring journey has already begun to leave an impact far beyond the runway.

Hope, as many affectionately call her, is more than just a beauty queen. She’s a passionate mental health advocate, dancer, model, and philanthropist. From the age of nine, she began her modelling journey, inspired by her cousin Karabo Gorewang’s pageant success. She joined the Kasi Gemz modelling group in 2018 and honed her dancing at the Mayibuye Dance Academy, a space that shaped her into the dynamic young leader she is today.

Despite not having a permanent practice space, Hope and her fellow Kasi Gemz members have found refuge at Boitumelo Special School in Phutanang, where they continue to train and dream big. 

“It’s unfortunate but a blessing as well,” Hope reflects. “We are so grateful for the school’s support, but we dream of our own space with walls decorated with our memories and achievements.”

Her inspiration to compete in Miss Teen Universe SA Northern Cape came from fellow Kimberley star Mishka Bough, who recently won the Preteen World 2024 title. “If she could do it, I could too,” says Hope, though she admits self-doubt crept in. Encouragement from her family, close friend Lesego Jade Malgas, her best friend, and her Kasi Gemz family helped her push through.

“I never imagined I’d win,” she confesses. “I aimed for the Miss Teen Mundial title, but God had other plans – and I’m so grateful for this unexpected path.”

A Moment to Remember

The pageant took place at the Sun Meropa Casino in Limpopo - Hope’s first trip to the province. “The experience was amazing. I made friends and created memories, and would go back in a heartbeat,” she says.

However, the competition wasn’t without its challenges. “The interview was the hardest part. I’m more of a doer than a speaker,” she shares. “I prefer hyping the crowd and participating in activities. But I’ve learnt not to let anxiety control me – I am in charge of my body.”

Preparation wasn’t just physical for Hope - it was mental and emotional too. Her coach, Nombulelo Mdokwana, instilled a positive mindset: “Win or lose, have fun and make friends.”

To stay active, Hope turned to netball. Emotionally, she avoided negativity and embraced inner peace.

A memorable moment? “Definitely the dinner where we all exchanged thoughts and gifts and took tons of pictures. It was pure joy.”

Crowned with Purpose

When her name was announced as the winner, Hope was overcome with emotion. “The joy on my dad’s face said it all - he was over the moon. If my mom, who was in the hospital at the time, had been there, she would’ve cried like a baby. But I know she’s always with me in spirit.”

For Hope, the crown is not just about titles - it’s about transformation. “This isn’t just my win. It’s for Kimberley. I want the world to see our talent.”

She’s already working to secure sponsorships for youth in her community. One of her first missions is to help Tshepang Molale, a passionate young soccer player, attend the Inter-CBC tournament in Pretoria. “He’s talented, but financial barriers are holding him back. I want to make his dream possible - who knows, he might be Kimberley’s next soccer star.”

Since her crowning, Hope has become a source of motivation. “People have told me I inspire them - that I’m their role model. It’s humbling and pushes me to aim even higher.”

Hope Foundation: Dreams in Action

Hope isn’t stopping with a sash and tiara. She’s building something that will last: The Hope Foundation, an NPO-in-progress aimed at supporting and promoting local talent. 

“I want young artists, dancers, and creatives to have a platform where they can be seen and heard. I want them to know they matter,” she says.

As part of her mission, she plans to host talent shows, pageants, dance battles, and promotional events for local artists. “Our people are gifted. They just need someone to believe in them and give them that platform.”

Looking to the Future

While many expected her to go on to the national finals, Hope has decided to press pause and focus on her education. “Right now, my books come first. I’m not in a rush – success requires patience.”

Still, her dreams are as bold as ever. “I want to be a coach and leader in my community. But I also dream of becoming an entrepreneur, fashion designer, professional dancer, artist, and actress. I’m just a girl with big dreams – and I believe in each one of them.”

In the next five years, she hopes to run a successful business and continue motivating youth. “I want to see young boys and girls becoming the best versions of themselves.”

The Girl Behind the Crown

When she’s not modelling or planning her next community event, Hope is dancing, singing, acting, playing netball, or creating artwork. What keeps her going? “Music - it activates my brain and inspires crazy, fun ideas. It makes me want to travel, bungee jump, zip line - just live life to the fullest.”

Her biggest role models are her parents and coach, who’ve taught her humility, gratitude, and perseverance. “They taught me to clap for others, help even when I’m struggling, and cherish every moment.”

Parting Words from a Queen

To young girls in Kimberley and the Northern Cape, Rethabile Hope Maroane has this message:

“Chase your dreams. If you fall, get up – even if you have to crawl to the finish line. Be patient with yourself; have faith in God and yourself. Work smart, not hard. Be kind. Be yourself. Not everyone will celebrate your success – sometimes not even your closest friends or family. But keep going. Patience always pays off.”

With her heart set on empowerment and her eyes on the stars, she is not just wearing a crown – she’s redefining what it means to be a queen in today’s world. And she’s doing it all with humility, grace, and unstoppable hope.