By Samkelisiwe Mhlanga
Middelburg — At 24, Kekeletso Sellwane has already lived a story most people take a lifetime to write. Born and raised in Middelburg Mpumalanga and now living in Rockdale, she is a chiropractic graduate, literacy advocate, and pageant contestant whose journey is rooted in one word: purpose.
Kekeletso’s path did not follow a straight line, and that is exactly what makes it resonate.
Rooted in Reading, Driven by Impact
As a self-described avid reader, Kekeletso founded the social media campaign ‘Read Beyond Borders.’ The initiative aims to promote literacy and educational empowerment in communities where access to books and learning resources is limited.
“I believe personal growth starts with knowledge,” she says. “If we can build a culture of reading, we can change mindsets and open doors for the next generation.”
Her passion for education goes beyond advocacy. Kekeletso completed her Bachelor of Health Science in Chiropractic at the University of Johannesburg in 2025 and is set to graduate in June 2026.
However, her academic journey is not complete. She is now seeking funding to complete her MHSC Chiropractic qualification, the final step before she can practice as a fully qualified chiropractor and bring accessible spinal healthcare to underserved communities in Mpumalanga.
Resilience on the Pageant Stage
Kekeletso also made headlines earlier this year when she placed second runner-up in the Miss Mpumalanga pageant on her second attempt.
The first time around, she did not make it. But instead of stepping back, she stepped up.
“This experience reminded me that resilience and self-belief are more important than immediate results,” she reflects. “It wasn’t the position I initially hoped for, but I trust in God’s timing. This is a meaningful step in my journey.”
Her motivation for entering was both personal and practical. The Miss Mpumalanga platform aims to uplift young women through opportunity, and the titleholder’s bursary could have helped Kekeletso fund her remaining studies. With encouragement and support from her mother, she decided to take the leap a second time.
“I saw it as a chance to change my life,” she says honestly. “Winning would have opened doors, but I believe everything happens in God’s perfect timing.”
A Message for the Youth: Be Consistent
Kekeletso’s advice to young people is direct and grounded: “Don’t stop, don’t give up, stay consistent.”
“Keep showing up even when you don’t feel like it. Follow the plan, not your mood,” she says. “To anyone considering a pageant or any new challenge, go for it. It’s a beautiful journey of self-discovery. The sky isn’t the limit. We can go beyond the galaxies.”
The Next Step: A Call for Support
Despite her achievements, Kekeletso now faces a financial hurdle that threatens to pause her academic journey. She has an outstanding tuition balance of approximately R53,000 for her MHSC Chiropractic studies, a qualification she needs to become a fully registered and practicing chiropractor.
“As the founder of Read Beyond Borders, I believe in the transformative power of education, not only for myself, but for the youth I advocate for,” she says. “I’m determined to lead by example and finish what I started.”
Kekeletso is now humbly appealing to sponsors, partners, and stakeholders who believe in youth empowerment and education to assist her in overcoming this obstacle.
“Any contribution, whether partial or full, would bring me one step closer to realising my dream and giving back to my community as a qualified healthcare professional. I would be deeply grateful for your consideration, support, or guidance.”
Contact Details
Kekeletso Sellwane
📧 Kekeletsocharmaine73@gmail.com
📍 Middelburg / Rockdale, Mpumalanga
About Kekeletso Sellwane
Kekeletso Sellwane is a 24-year-old chiropractic graduate from Middelburg and founder of the Read Beyond Borders literacy campaign. She was also named the 2026 Miss Mpumalanga second runner-up and is currently seeking sponsorship to complete her Master of Health Science in Chiropractic.
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