GEORGE NEWS - The first Miss George Rural pageant celebrated beauty, confidence and community spirit as the contestants took to the stage to compete for the inaugural titles.
The event took place at the Lawaaikamp Community Hall on 18 July, bringing together supporters, families and community members for the occasion.
Driven by the vision of organiser Jayton Abrahams and managers Zaida Williams and Levinia Wildeman, the pageant attracted participants from communities across the region, including Borcherds, Blanco, Rosemoor, Pacaltsdorp, Maraiskamp, Lawaaikamp and Thembalethu. The contestants competed in junior and senior divisions, and the judges selected the winners based on qualities such as confidence, stage presence and overall presentation.
In the junior category, Faith Weyers was crowned Miss George Junior Queen 2026. Kiana van Wyngaardt was named first princess and Tevanichia Scheepers received the title of second princess. Cloe Campher finished as third runner-up and Amore Moni as fourth runner-up.
In the senior division, Koketso Jiyana was crowned Miss George Queen 2026. Haley van Wyngaardt was named first princess and Amber-Leigh Manes second princess. Shipokazi Ludaka was awarded third runner-up, while Sihle May finished as fourth runner-up.
The contestants in the inaugural Miss George Rural pageant on stage. Photo: Supplied
The organisers described this inaugural pageant as a platform to empower young women, encourage self-confidence and provide opportunities for personal growth while celebrating the talent and diversity of George's rural community.
The successful debut of the pageant is expected to pave the way for the competition to become an annual community event.
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