In a courageous evening of astonishing fashion, outstanding performances, and heartwarming unity, beauty met elegance, class, and intelligence. In a place where many girls found a home shines the extravagant lights of a night that presents Miss Erica 2025. The 19 contestants opened the event with a group dance, which was followed by a purple show-off that was inspired by their residence’s colour. The programme director said that it was a challenge for the contestants – “Are you truly an Ericaner if you cannot rock purple?”
When women rock the stage, they leave footprints of resilience, resistance, and outstanding confidence. This was evident in the formal walk, which, as one of the audience members noted, was “glamorous and glorious”. It is empowering to see women take to the stage, walk side by side, own who they are, and build up those next to them. They are all Miss Erica, but only one can represent them all. The audience was constantly blown away by the incredible presentations and performances. Many called the evening “beautiful”, and some even gave it a “chef’s kiss”. The contestants had their own unique style and songs that made them stand out.
Onalenna Meopeng, one of the contestants and a third-year Medical Science student, said, “Being an Ericaner embodies so much, and I have grown so much in this place. What inspired me to run for this pageant is just having fun, wearing a pretty dress, and showing who I am to the other Ericaners. This is something I normally would not do, but my friends encouraged me. My confidence comes from being part of the Ovuwa Choir. It has forced me to learn how to be a performer, to smile, and confidently present myself.” Meopeng further advised, “If you are struggling with confidence, just try. Sometimes, it is not that you are not confident, [but] you just have never been put in a position to showcase that confidence. So, just try.”
One of the three judges shared her insights on pageants. “I think pageants are still relevant and important in this modern era. Being in the industry from 2019 taught me confidence and social skills, [and] it also helped me with my overall personal growth. I think it’s important to use the platforms you are given, and pageants give you that opportunity.” She went on to say, “My highlight of the night was definitely the evening wear. It’s interesting to see all the girls’ different personalities and styles.” When asked what keeps her grounded, she concluded, “What I told myself is that the people in the audience and judges are also human just like me, so I must just be myself and be free.”
The event was sponsored by brands like Sorbet, Rocomamas, The Beauty Brand, and many more. The Ericaners came, saw, and conquered, but most importantly, they crowned their new queens.
