IN THE heart of Barkly West, a small Northern Cape town, a young woman with big dreams is making waves on an international scale. J-Dean Bridges, a 21-year-old with a passion for mental health advocacy, was recently crowned Miss Petite International South Africa at the Meropa Sun Casino in Polokwane, Limpopo.

For J-Dean, pageantry is more than just a crown and sash - it is a platform for change. "As a passionate advocate for mental health awareness, I've discovered that pageantry offers a powerful platform to make a meaningful difference," she shares. "Representing South Africa as Miss Petite International SA, I’m dedicated to promoting mental well-being, particularly among our youth."

A Mission Beyond the Crown

One of J-Dean’s most impactful initiatives is her school shoe donation project. She firmly believes that a child who feels comfortable and confident at school has a greater chance of thriving academically and emotionally. "By providing essential school shoes, I aim to help create a supportive environment that fosters growth, self-esteem, and a love for learning," she explains.

With the international Miss Petite competition on the horizon, J-Dean is eager to take her message to the world. "It feels surreal, yet incredibly empowering. Coming from a small town with big dreams, this opportunity is only the beginning of an extraordinary journey".

The Road to the Crown

J-Dean’s journey into pageantry was unexpected and not something she initially envisioned.

"Initially, I perceived pageantry as solely focused on physical beauty. However, as I delved deeper, I discovered the significant impact of philanthropy, which resonated deeply with me and fuelled my passion for this platform," she reflects.

One of her most cherished moments during a recent pageant was the sense of sisterhood and camaraderie she experienced. "One of my favourite memories from the Miss Teen Universe SA pageant was the evening we all shared dinner and exchanged gifts. It was a moment of genuine connection and relaxation among fellow contestants."

Overcoming Challenges

The path to success has not been without obstacles. "Throughout my journey, I faced numerous challenges, including self-doubt and financial stress," J-Dean admits.

However, her unwavering faith and resilience kept her going. "Mentally, I focused on building my confidence, and spending more time meditating on the word of God helped keep me sane and focused."

Inspiring the Next Generation

J-Dean hopes her journey will inspire other young girls to pursue their dreams fearlessly. "Don't let your surroundings define your aspirations. You have the power to shape your destiny and create the life you desire," she encourages.

Beyond the pageant world, J-Dean’s aspirations extend into psychology, a field she is deeply passionate about. "Mental health advocacy is at the core of everything I do, and I believe becoming a psychologist will allow me to make an even greater impact."

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From Barkly West to the international stage: J-Dean's journey to Miss Petite International