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By Cynthia Nkgudi
A rising star born and raised in the heart of Sekhukhune, Limpopo, is making waves on beauty stages after being announced as a finalist in the prestigious Miss Curvylicious 2025 competition.
Grace Hlakudi, a 45-year-old mother of three from Ga-Matsimela, has captured hearts with her poise, intelligence, and commitment to community service. Representing plus-size women, Grace stood out among numerous contestants, impressing judges with her articulate responses, confident stage presence, and passion for helping those in need.
“By nature, I am a giver,” she explained during her interview. “I love helping people, especially those who are homeless. Providing them with food, blankets, and clothes gives me so much joy. I want to show them love by even helping them bathe, taking them to the salon, and dressing them in clothes I design—which also helps advertise my business.”
This multi-talented finalist wears many hats—she’s a qualified teacher, a trained nurse, and a full-time fashion designer. Grace revealed that she has always loved beauty contests but didn’t have the opportunity to participate until now.
“My wish was to enter Miss SA while still in primary school, but unfortunately, growing up where I did, I didn’t get that opportunity. I developed a pain that I carried with me while growing up. Later, I went to college and got opportunities to enter beauty pageants, but was discouraged because my body shape had already changed. That shattered me, and I gave up,” Grace shared.
Her path to the Miss Curvylicious competition came unexpectedly. “I was scrolling through social media when I came across Miss Curvylicious 2025. After doing thorough research, I found out that I could qualify with my body shape. I was glad to learn they were celebrating the fuller figure that many people are ashamed of. I smiled and realized Miss Curvylicious is for me. I’m happy to be filling the gap I missed in my younger years.”
Grace’s talents extend beyond the runway. She previously worked as a hairdresser and owned a salon from 2006 until 2013. During that time, she won a competition in Sekhukhune District Municipality under Fetakgomo Municipality and was awarded salon equipment.
“I quit the salon business because we were no longer making enough profit,” she explained.
With her diverse skills and giving heart, Grace is hoping to secure sponsorship to fulfill her dreams of giving back to her community. Local residents are encouraged to support her journey in the Miss Curvylicious 2025 competition, with the finals scheduled for next month.
For more information on how to support Grace Hlakudi, contact our newspaper office or follow her on social media @GraceHlakudiOfficial.
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