Paige Harvey, a Wits graduate on a mission to spark change, one crown at a time.
- Beyond the Miss Soweto crown, Paige Harvey’s quest is for purpose and impact
- Beauty, brains and a desire to make a difference
- The Miss Soweto winner has eyes set on the Miss SA 2025 crown
In a world where traditional paths are often expected, Paige Harvey stands out as someone who has seamlessly transitioned from the world of diplomacy to the glamour of beauty pageants.
As a Wits University international relations graduate, Miss Soweto 2023, and a contestant for Miss South Africa 2025, Harvey’s journey is more than just a career shift. It’s a testament to her passion, determination, and multifaceted talent.
Paige grew up in Eldorado Park, Soweto, where her love and passion for modelling started. “I have entered Miss SA 2025 to stand as a beacon of hope, pioneering positive change in the mindsets of the youth. As South Africa prepares to host a G20 summit, the world is turning its eyes to us, this is more than a political moment; it is time for us to showcase the strength, resilience, and brilliance of our people,” she said.
From a young age, Harvey was fascinated by how countries interact and how policy shapes lives. “Studying international relations at Wits gave me the academic ground to explore complex topics and sparked a deeper desire to be part of the solution,” said Harvey.
Pageantry became a platform where Harvey could merge beauty with purpose. “I realized that pageants could elevate voices and causes,” she explained.
Harvey doesn’t see her academic and pageant personas as separate entities. “Both require discipline, confidence, and authenticity,” she said. Her academic journey grounds her, while pageantry empowers her to express that foundation publicly.
Harvey has faced her fair share of challenges, from balancing self-doubt and public expectation to navigating scrutiny and criticism. But she’s learned to stay rooted in her purpose and protect her peace. “I remind myself that I’m not just doing this for applause, I’m doing it for impact,” she said.
One of the most impactful moments for Harvey was when she spoke to a group of schoolgirls about self-worth and purpose during Miss Soweto 2023. “One of them later told me that hearing my story gave her courage to apply for university,” she recalls. “That moment reminded me why I do pageantry – it isn’t just about the crown, it’s about connection,” said Harvey.
Her advice to young women pursuing multiple passions is simple: “Don’t let society box you in. You are allowed to do many things – smart, stylish, strategic, soft. Own every facet of your identity and don’t be afraid to show up fully.”
As she looks to the future, Harvey Paige hopes to continue competing on international stages and using her platform to spotlight youth empowerment and African excellence. She envisions a career that merges diplomacy, media and humanitarianism.
FEATURED IMAGE: Paige Harvey’s Miss SA 2025 entry picture, Photo: Supplied/Rendaldo Yarde
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