By Lebone Rodah Mosima
Ten-year-old Warona Setsome from R.B. Dithupe Intermediate School in Welbedacht Township has been named 1st Princess in the Little Miss Universe category after competing at the international pageant in the Philippines.
Her mother and manager, Kedijang Hendrietta Setsome, said Warona’s achievement followed a rapid rise in modelling after she recognised her daughter’s interest and decided to support her ambitions.
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“What started as a young girl’s interest in modelling has grown into something much bigger,” Setsome said.
“I saw her potential and decided to nurture it, supported her and gave her every opportunity to grow.”
Setsome said she had watched her daughter develop not only as a model but also as a confident young girl who understands the importance of using her voice and platform positively.
The journey to the international competition was not without challenges, with Warona becoming ill during the pageant.
“[D]espite not feeling her best, she showed incredible determination,” Setsome said.
“She continued to participate and represented herself, her family, the North West, and South Africa with grace, discipline, and commitment. She gave every activity her absolute best and carried herself with such strength and professionalism.”
Setsome said watching her daughter push through the difficult period and continue competing made her particularly proud.
The North West Department of Education said Warona’s progress had been remarkable given the short time she had been involved in modelling.
“Warona only started modelling in 2025 and within a very short space of time she has had the opportunity to walk for international fashion shows and designers, participate in events, develop her skills as a motivational speaker to children, and became a host and young public figure,” the department said.
North West Education MEC Desbo Mohono congratulated Warona, saying the achievement was a source of pride for her family, school, community and the province.
“We are extremely proud of her for representing the North West and South Africa with distinction on an international stage,” she said.
Mohono said Warona’s achievement demonstrated the talent and potential of young people in the province, pointing to another recent international success by a North West learner.
“Last month, we had Mbulelo Tolom from Klerksdorp, who represented the North West and the entire country in the Spelling Bee competition held in China, where he obtained sixth position.”
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She said both achievements showed that young people from the province were capable of competing internationally across different fields.
“On behalf of the North West Department of Education, I extend our warmest congratulations to Warona,” she said.
“May this achievement inspire her to continue pursuing her dreams and encourage other young learners to believe in themselves and strive for excellence.”
Mohono also congratulated Warona’s parents, teachers and others who supported her throughout her journey, saying their encouragement and commitment had played an important role in helping her reach the milestone.
