GEORGE NEWS - Georgian Adri Watts was selected as the Garden Route finalist for the Mrs Bold South Africa Pageant at an event held at the Regal Hotel in Midrand on 24 February.

It's a pageant with a difference in that the contestants are judged on their community involvement and commitment to social causes, and not their physical appearance.

Watts, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2002 and is still fighting against the disease, is looking to make a difference in the lives of women who are in the same boat.

"I have had 36 operations because of cancer and I know what it is to face circumstances over which you have no control and to lack resources," she says. 

"So helping women who are in a similar position is a cause near to my heart. I have now stopped all cancer therapy to follow a healthy, natural lifestyle and depend upon God for the rest. 

"It is my sincerest wish to use the Mrs Bold platform to reach out to those in need in our community and be a voice for them."

In addition to building a portfolio of her community involvement in the Garden Route and the ways in which she has brought about some positive change, Watts also has to raise sponsorships to qualify for the final event. 

"For the fundraising, I am turning to local businesses who will receive valuable exposure and advertising rights in return for their sponsorship. To all those who have already helped me, I would like to say a huge thank you."

Watts matriculated at Outeniqua High in 1994 and qualified as a somatologist at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology. She has worked at Fancourt and overseas, but recently returned to South Africa.

According to the Mrs Bold South Africa Pageant rules, the competition is open to married, divorced or widowed women, as well as mature women with children, and it aims to provide a platform for these women to showcase their talent and commitment to social causes.

The crowning event will take place on 26 October.

The public can also vote for the finalists. Garden Route citizens who would like to vote for Watts, must SMS 'Bold 06' to 47439 (R3 per SMS). Voting lines close on 30 July.

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