When you are proud of your culture, you can share diversity and serve as a role-model to youth, shared Kiara Govender the newly-crowned 2024 Zee TV Miss India South Africa.

Govender, 23, of Fourways in Johannesburg, completed her honours in psychology and is awaiting her results.

She was among 16 finalists, who competed in the contest on Saturday at the Durban Jewish Centre.

Karuna Eraman, 22, of who is a LLB law student, from Tongaat, was the first runner-up and Sashmika Jairam, 19, a clinical psychology and biomedical science student from Umhlanga, was the second runner-up.

“When I was announced as the winner, I felt emotional in that moment, especially seeing my family. I was proud that the judges saw what I see myself as, and that I am capable. I am grateful to Zee TV and Miss India SA for their support throughout the competition. I am overwhelmed with gratitude," said Govender.

She said she entered the pageant online earlier this year and was informed she was selected in March.

“As an individual with family values, service to others is important to me. I found that my values in giving back to the community aligned with those of the pageant, so I decided to enter. Over and above that, I knew I would meet other females who shared similar principles and it would be a great experience to meet them."

Govender added that for the competition she was confident in her abilities, but the other contestants were just as capable, so the playing field was even.

“Everyone had the capability to win. We all helped each other and did not feel like a competition because everyone was supportive. This was the first pageant I entered, so it was great to see the behind-the-scenes support."

Govender said as part of her prize, there may be local and international opportunities lined-up for her.

“My role as the Zee TV Miss India SA will be to inspire people. My mission is to support various causes and make women feel uplifted and proud. I will do what I can to fulfill my role. I will carry this role for life but once my reign is over I will consider entering other pageants and taking up other opportunities,” said Govender.

She wants to further her studies by doing short courses in psychology.

"I was a special needs therapist and I want to get back in the field. I am also an educator in human values in children, so I teach and inspire them to be moral individuals, to be leaders of tomorrow and to reach success. I believe you should live by example and practice what you preach.”

Govender added that she enjoyed Carnatic music, Bharatha Natyam and travelling. She is also a beauty and lifestyle content creator.

She said she was born in Cape Town and was an only child.

"My parents are my biggest supporters. They have taught me that if you are passionate about something then you must work hard and stay humble then you will be successful. They also taught me to always inspire others.

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