For Zanenjabulo beauty is being ‘comfortable in your own skin’

Twenty-two year old medical laboratory science student Zanenjabulo Mashaba was crowned the Miss Cape Town Legacy winner at a competition held at Circa Hotel in the city centre last week.

The Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) student said while growing up she lacked confidence as she was often body-shamed as “a chubby little girl”.

Her advocacy focuses on body-shaming, a critical issue that affects many people, particularly women. As a survivor of body-shaming herself, she has made it her mission to help others overcome the negative effects of body-shaming and promote self-love and acceptance.

“Through her advocacy, Zanenjabulo has inspired countless individuals to embrace their bodies and reject societal beauty standards,” said Mihlali Kwayiba, who organised the pageant.

“What drove me to enter the competition was a desire to showcase the power of confidence, education, and being comfortable in my own skin. I believe that true beauty comes from self-assurance and embracing who you are. My education has given me the tools to think critically and approach challenges with resilience, while confidence has allowed me to step into spaces where I can inspire others to embrace their uniqueness,” said Zanenjabulo

She said winning Miss Cape Town Legacy has been a life-changing experience for her.

“ It has given me a platform to advocate for causes close to my heart, particularly the importance of being comfortable in your own skin,” she said.