BLOEMFONTEIN: A teenage model from Bloemfontein, Nadia Mqonqo, has achieved great triumph after being crowned Miss Teen Continental Africa at the international final of the 2025 Miss Teen Continental pageant in Paraguay. She was crowned on 28 September – becoming the first contestant hailing from South Africa to claim this prestigious and sought-after title.
This made Nadia (17), a Gr.11 learner at the Petunia High School in Heidedal, a deserving continental ambassador. She made it through the top five in the swimsuit category and the top ten overall in the international pageantry competition.
This was the first time she competed internationally. Winning the crown was a surprise according to her.
“Honestly, I did not anticipate winning. It was my first time competing internationally, so I just wanted to enjoy the experience and do my best. But I worked hard, stayed focused, and trusted God; that helped me go further than I expected,” said Nadia.
She is of the YEZ Models Bloemfontein agency. Nadia has fond memories of the journey to Paraguay.
“It was not easy, but it was worth it. From preparing outfits and training, to traveling across the world, every step taught me something new. Representing South Africa on that stage is one of the proudest and happiest moments of my life.”
The young model is delighted she grabbed the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to showcase her talent in modelling and pageantry on the world stage. “It was an amazing experience. I met people from different countries, learned about new cultures, and gained a lot of confidence. It also taught me to stay humble and grateful, no matter where I go.”
Nadia attributes her success to the great support and motivation she receives. “My dad and a few close friends support and motivate me the most. They always remind me to stay focused, believe in myself, and never give up. Their encouragement means a lot and keeps me going, even when things get tough.”
She got the ticket to the international contest after winning the Miss Teen Universe South Africa Free State contest.
“I got the chance to represent my province at the national level. From there, I got selected to represent South Africa internationally at Miss Teen Continental in Paraguay. It was such an amazing moment for me − a dream come true.”
Nadia’s father, Mpumelelo Latyeba, said he was overwhelmed by his daughter’s achievement internationally.
“I feel so blessed and I am so happy. It is only by the grace of God; I always pray for my children that God will help them to make the right choices. If you look outside, teenagers are not listening to their parents anymore − they do things that are not right,” said Latyeba.
“I am happy because it was something she has been longing for, and she achieved her milestone. Secondly, it will open doors for her wherever she goes, including Miss Universe. I always tell her to remain focused, finish her school, and go to tertiary education to further her studies and grow in life.”
“She went alone to Paraguay − she came, she saw, and she conquered. Surely God is good.”
Nadia was warmly welcome by the Petunia High School teaching staff on her return with the prestigious crown from Paraguay – in the South America.
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