In a bid to recognize curvy and shapely models, the Mudifho empire successfully hosted the Miss Venda Plus-Size pageant at Villarikhs Park, Nzhelele, on Saturday.

The pageant offered the contestants the opportunity to showcase that being big is also beautiful.

The founder of the Miss Venda Plus-Size pageant, Nadney Mulaudzi, said the purpose of the pageant was to cater for bigger people. "We have learnt that society has isolated plus-size girls when it comes to beauty pageants. Our primary purpose is to give them a platform to shine like other girls," Mulaudzi added.

Mulaudzi further said: "We also encourage plus-size girls to love and accept themselves, love their bodies the way they are and not let society discourage and mock them. It's about building confidence."

The winners were: Preshy Lyon Sibambu (queen), Tondani Sikhwari (first princess), Olindwaho Lithole (second princess and Miss Publicity), Shammah Tshiangwana (Miss Personality) and Wanga Ramuhuyu (Miss Entrepreneur).

Sibambu was ecstatic to be crowned the queen. "I appreciate everyone who helped me to win for their love and support," she said.