Eight-year-old Mdantsane-born Linani Potwana was crowned Mini Miss Africa SA — Eastern Cape 2025, and went on to place as second runner-up at the national competition in Pretoria earlier in August.
Linani walked away with five titles in total, adding to a growing international profile that already includes appearances at Paris Fashion Week and Shanghai Kids Fashion Week.
Her modelling journey began at just four years old while living in China, where she quickly impressed on the runway and branched out into acting, dance and television.
She has since featured in commercials, dramas and films, including a campaign for Longi Solar Panels.
Speaking after her pageant success, the young model said the recognition felt like a dream come true.
I could not stop smiling, I felt proud of myself. I prayed so much, and I am happy Jesus helped me win
“When I heard my name called, I was so happy. I didn’t know I was going to win two crowns and a trophy.
“I could not stop smiling, I felt proud of myself. I prayed so much, and I am happy Jesus helped me win,” she said.
Linani’s growing list of achievements includes walking for Dior at Paris Fashion Week, HOMEGOOD at China Fashion Week and Hong Kong’s Lucky Seven brand during Shanghai Kids Fashion Week.
She credits preparation and her family’s encouragement for keeping her confidence high.
“I practise a lot — my walk, poses and talent performances. It helps me not forget my confidence.
“I also listen to my mom’s advice, and before going on stage I take a deep breath and remind myself to have fun and kill it,” she said.
Support from family and friends, she said, was one of her biggest motivations.
“Seeing my family proud makes me super happy and inspires me to do more. I’m inspired by my coaches and also by my mom, because she always believes in me.”
Linani said she hoped to inspire other young people.
“I see myself as an international model, actress and someone who inspires other kids to believe in their dreams.
“I also want to help children who don’t have opportunities so they can shine too.
“Thank you to everyone who has been part of my journey — I am excited for what is next.”
Her mother, Ziyanda Potwana, said her daughter’s success had been both humbling and inspiring.
“Watching Linani’s journey unfold has been such a blessing. Seeing her hard work, confidence and passion recognised at such a young age fills my heart with joy.
“She loves being on stage and achieving the things she prays for is truly a blessing.”
Balancing school, travel, castings and competitions had not always been easy, she said, especially when cultural and language differences presented challenges.
“Since this was her first pageant I did not expect her to walk away with multiple titles.
“Every time they kept calling her name I was like, ‘what?’ When they called her for best talent I screamed with excitement.”
Potwana said her daughter’s journey had reinforced the importance of parents listening to their children’s passions.
“Every child has something special, and as mothers our job is to help them believe in themselves.
“When Linani said she wanted to pause after missing the Shein opportunity, I respected that.
“Later she said she missed the runway and wanted to go back — and I am glad I listened.
“This journey has taught me patience, resilience and the joy of small wins. It really does take a village.”
Daily Dispatch
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