Weekend Argus (Saturday Edition)
Dream comes true for new Mrs Western Cape 2023 Tamaryn
IT WAS a dream come true for the unemployed mother of three, Tamaryn Williams, who despite challenges of finding a job, pursued her pageant passion and it has finally paid off, giving her room to inspire and make a difference in the lives of many.
The annual beauty pageant for married and older women took place at the M and M Music Academy in Blouberg earlier this month.
“I went from being a stay-at-home mom to Mrs Western Cape 2023 and it’s so amazing how people recognise me as a queen and congratulate me.”
Williams started competing at local pageants at the age of 5 and won a few titles, including Miss Ocean View, but she almost gave up on her dream after her first pregnancy.
“At 19 I fell pregnant and thought my entire plans and world were crushed. It took me many years to get to this point, where I feel that it’s never too late to continue what makes you happy and being passionate about your goals and dreams.
“I took a huge step to enter the Mrs Western Cape Pageant and nearly pulled out because of the negative thoughts I had about myself.
“It was one of the most emotional and unforgettable experiences I have ever had in years. But I managed to convince myself that I want to show not just myself but my children and other people that you can do it. “I never thought I would win.” The title comes with expectations. Juanita Smit, director at Mzantzi Pageant which runs the RoleModels Foundation, explained.
“We are not looking for a woman who is perfect or has the perfect life, we need real women to step up and speak out for those who cannot speak for themselves. Real women who have been broken, who know about the hardship of life, but have made a decision to be significant anyway. These pageants are not about beauty, but about having a willing heart to make a difference where it is needed most.”
This is music to the charity volunteer and anti-bullying activist who has assisted with soup kitchens for many years. “This experience has changed my entire perception on life. I am ready to make big changes and help uplift people in my community and hopefully one day, my country,” Williams said.
“I run an anti-bullying campaign at the schools in Ocean View. I volunteered at Children with a Need Organisation where I helped with the soup kitchen on a daily basis. I am also a volunteer at Father’s House NPO.
“I have started my own organisation, Connect Hope, and I need pots to start my own soup kitchen, and I plan to host a Christmas party this year for kids in my community.”
Her mother-in-law, Ursula Williams, said Tamaryn made them proud as she’s a hard worker who puts the needs of the others first and doesn’t let life challenges dim her spark.
And Tamaryn thanked all who supported her: “Especially my father, who I was fortunate enough to have crown me. I couldn’t hold the tears of joy, that was my special moment.”