Mrs Soweto finalist uses pageantry to champion women and youth leadership

What began as a journey in modelling has evolved into a mission to empower women and young people, with Mrs Soweto 2026 finalist from Meadowlands, Dalsy Manganyi using the pageant platform to amplify her advocacy for leadership, education and community development.

The 36-year-old public servant and City of Johannesburg PR Cllr says her passion lies in creating opportunities that enable women and youth to realise their potential and take up leadership roles.

Manganyi, who serves on the City’s Gender, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Committee while also coordinating minority parties in the COJ, said her work has always been centred on making a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

“I am passionate about youth empowerment, women’s leadership, and inclusive community development. My goal is to create meaningful opportunities for women and young people, particularly in leadership and personal development spaces,” she said.

In 2012 Manganyi was active in the modelling industry and was crowned Miss Soweto Photogenic . She later stepped away from pageantry to focus on public service and leadership before making a return with a renewed purpose.

Her return was inspired by the launch of an empowerment initiative that mentors and develops young women. “The platform builds confidence, visibility, and access for young women aspiring to leadership roles,” Manganyi said.

Beyond her public responsibilities, she continues to support students in her personal capacity by assisting them with university applications and registration processes to improve access to higher education: “I believes education remains one of the most effective tools for changing lives and strengthening communities.”

As a Mrs Soweto 2026 finalist, Manganyi hopes to use the competition as more than a beauty pageant, viewing it as a platform to inspire others.

“I aim to use this platform to continue my mission while connecting with a broader audience, encouraging young women to challenge stereotypes, embrace leadership, and step confidently into spaces of influence,” she said.