- A UWC student is set to represent South Africa at an international environmental competition in the Philippines
- His journey from rural upbringing to the global stage highlights his focus on sustainability and personal growth
- He is committed to climate advocacy and hopes to encourage youth to take action on environmental issues
Source: UGC
A student from the University of the Western Cape (UWC) preparing to represent South Africa In an international environmental competition in the Philippines.
UWC posted the story of Takalani Fulufelo Fakude on 04 June 2026. The 23-year-old B.Com Financial Accounting student will be traveling to the Philippines to compete in the Eco International Pageant, a pageant focused on environmental awareness and sustainable living. He will join global delegates using the platform to advance green initiatives while showcasing their countries.
“I am deeply committed to using my voice and platform to inspire change while proudly representing South Africa.”
from bushbuckridge Global Competition Forum
Born in Bushbuckridge, mpumalangaFakude says her journey in pageantry began unexpectedly but quickly became a platform for personal growth and advocacy. He now holds several titles including Mr Bushbuckridge Ambassador 2025 and Mr Eco South Africa 2025.
While preparing for the international stage, Fakude is also focused on completing her studies at UWC. He says that the balance between studies and shows has taught him discipline and time management.
“Balancing pageantry and academics requires discipline, time management and persistence.”
He is committed to continue to excel in both the areas without any compromise.
Stability and representation at the center
The competition is not only about performance but also about environmental impact, with contestants expected to promote eco-friendly solutions and awareness campaigns.
Fakude says he wants to use the global platform to inspire change and encourage youth to take action on environmental issues.
news in brief Contacted Takalani to ask what environmental issues he is passionate about in South Africa. He said:
“Climate change is the environmental issue I am most passionate about because it affects both people and nature. Through education and sustainable action, we can create a healthy future for future generations.”
As he prepares to leave for the competition, he says his goal is to show the world the strength and diversity of South Africans.
“It's bigger than me – it's about showcasing the beauty, diversity and strength of our country.”
Supporters can elect representatives official sitePay in a number of ways, and help her advance to the next steps during the June 5-11 voting period.
“Voting closes at 5:00pm South African time on 11 June 2026.”
More concise news stories on international delegates
- A University of Pretoria's top law students stunned The audience has repeatedly called for several awards for outstanding academic performance in various LLB modules, including the highest overall marks at the graduation level.
- final year medical sWits University student is in danger Not graduating despite accumulating almost R130,000 in unpaid fees prompted him to launch a crowdfunding campaign, as South Africans rallied with donations and messages of support.
- Two South African students have come up with a new science The project focuses on solving real world Environmental challenges, which gave him recognition so that he could represent the country in international science fairs.
Source: News in Brief