Palesa Mashiyane

What does your company do?

Introducing Palesa Mashiyane´s Modelling academy– More Than a Modelling Academy At PMG, we go beyond the runway and pageantry. We are a self-development initiative with a powerful mission: to nurture, empower, and uplift the next generation of South African women. Our academy is not just about modelling—it's about building confident, articulate, and socially conscious young women who are prepared to take the crown of life. We prepare our girls to become future leaders, advocates, and ambassadors—young women ready to embody the role of Miss South Africa. We focus on much more than the physical presentation. Through intense and professional training in public speaking, community involvement, academic support, and personal development, we give each girl the tools to express herself, lead with confidence, and command meaningful change. Our academy is a safe haven and a growth hub especially for girls who have experienced hardship, trauma, or abuse. We believe that every young woman, regardless of her past, deserves the opportunity to rise, heal, and shine. We instill strength, grace, and self-belief through etiquette training, leadership coaching, and empowerment workshops, creating well rounded individuals who are both elegant and impactful. At PMG, we don't just develop models—we mold role models.

What is your biggest success?

My greatest success as the founder of this academy has been witnessing the transformation of our girls into confident, purpose-driven young women who are actively making a difference in their communities. Seeing them take the values, skills, and confidence they've gained through our programs and apply them in real-world settings whether through public speaking engagements, leadership roles, or impactful community outreach has been incredibly fulfilling. It's in those moments that the true purpose of the academy comes to life. Their growth and commitment to positive change are a powerful reflection of the vision we set out to achieve: not just to develop poised individuals, but to empower compassionate leaders who uplift others.

What has been your biggest hurdle?

One of the biggest challenges we've faced as an academy has been shifting the mindset of our community regarding pageantry. Many still perceive it as something focused solely on physical appearance, overlooking the depth, discipline, and development that true pageantry and our academy stands for. This limited view has often made it difficult for the broader community to fully support or understand our mission. Our goal has always been to use the framework of pageantry as a powerful tool for self development, leadership training, academic support, and social impact. We are building young women who are not just visually poised but mentally strong, emotionally resilient, and committed to community service. Changing perceptions is a continuous journey. It requires consistent education, visible impact, and meaningful engagement. While the struggle has been real, it has also strengthened our resolve to stand firm in our purpose and continue proving, through the achievements of our girls, that beauty alone is not the crown substance but strength and service are