Winning and Giving Back: Mathabo Matlou’s Journey
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Johannesburg, 21 December 2025 – At just 19 years old, Mathabo Matlou has already made a big mark on the world of pageants and community work. Fresh from her win as Teen Universe South Africa 2026, this young woman from Johannesburg is not just about crowns and stages – she is all about lifting others up too. Her story is one of hard work, self-belief, and a strong wish to help young girls find their strength. As a law student, international titleholder, youth advocate, and spokesmodel, Mathabo shows how one person can chase dreams while making a difference. Her path from a curious child in pageants to founding her own group for women empowerment inspires many, especially in a country where young people face tough challenges like inequality and limited chances.
Mathabo’s win at the Teen Universe South Africa pageant highlights her grace, smarts, and drive. But beyond the spotlight, she runs Vic Girl, a non-profit that pushes young women to be vibrant, intelligent, and confident. This balance of personal success and giving back sets her apart, and her journey offers lessons for anyone aiming high while staying grounded.
Early Beginnings and Discovering Her Passion
Mathabo Matlou grew up in Johannesburg, in a setting that shaped her views on identity and strength. From grade five, she was the only Black girl in a mostly white school, which made her think deeply about what it means to stand out.This experience sparked her interest in pageants and modelling as ways to celebrate Black girl magic and beauty. She started competing at just eight years old, entering small events that built her skills and confidence step by step.
Her parents played a key role, always cheering her on and teaching her that no dream is too big – the sky is not even the limit. They saw her potential early and supported her through the ups and downs. Over the years, Mathabo collected more than 15 titles, each one teaching her about resilience and self-worth. These early steps were not just about winning; they were about learning to value her uniqueness in a world that sometimes makes it hard for young Black women to shine.
Today, as she studies for her LLB degree, Mathabo juggles books, pageants, and advocacy work. Her school days taught her to embrace differences, and she carries that into everything she does, from speaking up for youth to modelling on big stages.
Path to Pageant Success and International Recognition
Mathabo’s rise in the pageant world picked up speed in recent years. In 2023, scouts spotted her talent and invited her to represent South Africa at the International Girl Competition in Florida, United States.b5824a There, she clinched the title of International Girl Teen Miss 2023, a win that opened new doors. This success led to an exciting spot at New York Fashion Week, where she walked the runway and soaked up global experiences.
Building on that, Mathabo entered the Teen Universe South Africa pageant, aiming for the 2026 crown. Her preparation was intense – about nine months with coach and brand expert MV Mauvi. They focused on more than just looks; it was about self-growth, performance skills, critical thinking, and handling mental and physical tests. Mathabo learned to push her limits and let her true self shine, turning challenges into chances to grow.
The pageant itself, held at Emperors Palace in Kempton Park, saw her stand out among strong finalists. Her grace, purpose, and clear vision won over the judges, earning her the top spot. As Teen Universe South Africa 2026, she now represents the country on a bigger stage, sharing messages of empowerment and hope. This title is not just a win for her; it is a platform to reach more young people and show them what is possible with hard work.
Founding Vic Girl and Empowering Young Women
At the heart of Mathabo’s story is her non-profit, Vic Girl, which she started to help others find their voice. The name stands for Vibrant, Intelligent, Confident – words that sum up what she wants every young woman to feel. Vic Girl is a girl-led group that focuses on women empowerment, run by women for women. It aims to highlight the beauty and strength in young women, especially those from tough backgrounds.
Mathabo launched Vic Girl to integrate marginalised young women into society, giving them tools to build better lives.83c5fa The foundation runs programmes that boost confidence, teach skills, and create safe spaces for girls to share stories and dreams. From workshops on self-esteem to events that celebrate achievements, Vic Girl helps participants see their worth and chase goals without fear.
As a fierce believer in the power of young women, Mathabo uses her pageant wins to spread Vic Girl’s message far and wide. She believes in starting small but thinking big, just like her own journey. Through social media and public talks, she shares how being vibrant means showing energy, intelligent means using smarts wisely, and confident means believing in yourself no matter what.
Giving Back to the Community and Inspiring Change
Giving back is not just something Mathabo talks about – it is what she lives. Through Vic Girl, she reaches out to young girls and women, spreading the idea that everyone can be vibrant, intelligent, and confident.Her work focuses on empowerment, helping those who feel left out to find their place and thrive. This includes youth advocacy, where she speaks up for better chances in education and jobs.
Mathabo’s international experiences, like her time in Florida and New York, fuel her drive to give back locally. She wants South African girls to know they can aim for global stages too. As a spokesmodel, she uses her platform to highlight issues like inequality and the need for more support for young Black women. Her story shows how winning a title can lead to bigger impacts, like starting a foundation that changes lives one girl at a time.
In her community, Mathabo’s efforts create ripples. She inspires others to join in, building a network of confident young women ready to lead. Her message is simple: believe in yourself, work hard, and always lift others as you rise.
Looking Ahead: Dreams and Future Plans
With her Teen Universe South Africa 2026 crown, Mathabo has big plans. She aims to grow Vic Girl, reaching more communities across South Africa and beyond. As she finishes her LLB, she might blend law with advocacy, perhaps fighting for women’s rights in courts or policies. Her journey so far proves she can handle it all – studies, pageants, and philanthropy.
Mathabo’s story reminds us that success is sweeter when shared. In a world full of challenges, her light shines bright, showing young people that winning goes hand in hand with giving back. As she steps into her role, many will watch and learn from this vibrant, intelligent, and confident young leader.
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