Maass crowned Mrs Northern Cape 2027

Elske Maass was crowned Mrs Northern Cape 2027 at a pageant hosted as part of the Kalahari Kuierfees in Upington recently.

Maass, who lives and farms in Grootdrink, received her crown from outgoing queen Toks Bosman, Mrs Northern Cape 2026. She also won the Overall Debutante Queen and Overall Philanthropic Queen titles, while Taliya Barnard took the Overall Public Choice title. “It feels fantastic and strange. I appreciate everyone who voted for me. I think the interview video I produced, which showed how involved I am in my community and allowed me to be myself, played a huge role in winning the title,” Maass said.

Green fingers - The newly crowned queen is passionate about caring for the elderly and promoting vegetable gardening.

“God inspires me, and without Him I would not be able to do what I am currently doing. It is important to me that children know where their food comes from and are involved in feeding schemes,” she said. Her advice to young people is to put down their cellphones and appreciate the people around them. “Enjoy the people who surround you. It is important because time flies by very quickly,” she said.

Advice - Bosman, the outgoing queen, offered Maass words of encouragement as she handed over the crown.

“A crown is temporary, but the impact we make, the lives we touch and the memories we create last forever. My wish for you is that you make this journey your own, create beautiful memories and leave a legacy that extends far beyond your reign,” Bosman said. She also encouraged Maass to enjoy every moment, embrace challenges and remember that the crown represents more than a beauty pageant title. “It is a responsibility and a platform to uplift others in your own unique way. May you wear this crown with grace, humility, confidence and purpose. May this year open doors you never imagined, introduce you to incredible people and give you opportunities to make a meaningful difference,” Bosman said.

Queens galore - Denika Muller was crowned Miss Northern Cape 2027.

“My heart is filled with gratitude. All glory and honour to God, for without Him, none of this would have been possible. I will continue to be a light in my new journey as Miss Northern Cape,” she said. Muller also thanked her church, Christian Revival Church Upington, for its love, prayers, encouragement and support throughout her journey. “Thank you for believing in me, standing behind me and constantly reminding me that I am never alone. I am truly blessed to be surrounded by such an amazing family in Christ. Your support means more than words can express, and I will forever be grateful,” she said.

Lee-Ann Charlton was crowned Ms Northern Cape 2027, while Lenichia Brookes won the Little Miss Northern Cape 2027 title. Anja van Wyk was crowned Pre-Teen Miss Northern Cape 2027, Johanne Oosthuizen won the Junior Teen Miss Northern Cape 2027 title, and Kydele Oosthuizen, who matriculated from Hoërskool Duineveld in 2025, was crowned Teen Miss Northern Cape 2027.

The contestants impressed the audience and a panel of judges with their theme and evening wear. The judging panel comprised Pieter Jordaan, Janine Visser, Rika Cloete and Edroy Abrahams, with Yolande Fourie serving as adjudicator. Wynand Strydom was the master of ceremonies.

Beauty with purpose - The Mr & Mrs Northen Cape Provincial Pageant has been running since 2009 under the national umbrella body Mzansi Pageants.

The organisation supports the Poverty Sucks NPC campaign, which raises funds throughout the year through the sale of lollipops to assist people in need. Pageant organiser Joanita Smit said the pageant provides an opportunity for young people and older women to make a difference in their communities. “We have been involved with Starfish Place of Safety, a shelter for homeless people, for four years. The idea is to become more active on the streets and support people living there with food parcels and toiletries, for example. We want contestants to do charity work in their own communities,” Smit said.

Each finalist is required to start a community project in the area where she lives. “It is important that young people are taught from an early age that they can make a difference, not only through fundraising initiatives but also by doing practical things. Finalists can collect pet food for an animal shelter, adopt an old-age home and collect items for its residents, or gather stationery for a school,” Smit said. She added that public speaking was another important aspect of the competition because it builds self-confidence and gives children a voice.