Haitian-born Abigail Anne Pierre-Louis (25) was crowned winner of the Miss Global Heritage 2022 pageant after much anticipation last Saturday night (24^th). The dazzling event was held in Vhembe, at the Kalahari Waterfront Nandoni.

Eva Mzondiwa (23) from Zimbabwe took the title of 1^st Princess, while South Africa’s own Zabelo Hlabisa was selected as 2^nd Princess. Zabelo also won the People’s Choice title.

For Pierre-Louis, her passions lie in travelling and helping to uplift others. This, she said, had led her to see life from a perspective of gratitude, giving back to those who had moulded her to be where she was today. “This is an opportunity for me to use my voice and make an impact. That is the best thing I can do, especially in this day and age, because we are becoming more enlightened.”

She said her aim during her reign would be to push the Fourth Industrial Revolution mandate in order for all cultures to unite. “Most people do not know about our different cultures and it is because there is little to no content about our diverse cultures and heritage online. I want everyone to occupy that space to educate the next person. That way, we will be able to appreciate each other’s cultures instead of revolting against it. Inclusivity is power,” said Pierre-Louis.

The 1^st Princess, Eva Mzondiwa (23), is an agricultural engineering student at the Chinhoyi University of Technology. Born in a family of hardworking women, she has been moulded and raised to take up space and work hard. She believes in Ghandi’s saying that one should be the change they want to see in the world, and so she pushes herself to motivate young people to be more involved, cherish being in an intercultural community and maintain their individuality.

Zabelo Hlabisa (28), the 2^nd Princess, is a versatile and passionate young woman. Her daring attitude has seen her participating in numerous activities, including but not limited to academic excellence. Overcoming many challenges, Hlabisa was determined to make a success of her life. “From the bottom of my heart, I thank you, South Africa, for voting. Without you, I am nothing,” said Hlabisa.