In a world that often asks women to choose between their personal ambitions and their familial roles, Lauren-Marie Mkungela is rewriting the narrative. As a Mrs. South Africa semi-finalist, her journey is defined not by a sudden desire for the spotlight, but by a profound personal metamorphosis that saw her lose 38kg and rebuild her mental and emotional foundation. This “lightbulb moment” occurred when she realized she had stopped shrinking and started stepping forward, transforming her life through a rigorous commitment to courage and discipline. “I understood then that my journey wasn’t just about weight loss,” she reflects. “It was about courage, discipline, and choosing myself again. If I could do that, I could give other women permission to do the same.” For Lauren-Marie, entering this prestigious competition was never just about a title; it was about the realization that her transformation gave her a unique mandate to lead, serve, and stand fully in her purpose.
The transition from a corporate professional, wife of 11 years, and mother of two to a national semi-finalist has revealed a surprising depth of resilience. Lauren-Marie admits that while the demands are high, she navigates the balance by staying fully present in every moment. “For me, these roles actually feed into each other. My family inspires me. My career drives me, and this journey challenges me to grow, so it all works together rather than feeling like a balancing act,” she says. She rejects the idea that these roles are in conflict, instead viewing them as a harmonious cycle. This holistic approach is how she embodies the “Bonafide” woman—someone who is authentic, intentional, and purpose-driven. She lives this daily by “staying true to my values, leading with heart, and using my journey to inspire other women to choose themselves boldly.”
Beyond the glamour of the stage, Lauren-Marie’s vision for South Africa is grounded in practical, urgent change. Recognizing that more than two-thirds of South African women struggle with obesity and related health issues, her primary goal if crowned is to spearhead a wellness revolution. She aims to educate women on simple, accessible ways to maintain their health without the need for expensive gym memberships or elite trainers. “My goal is to reach women beyond my social media platforms, especially those who don’t have access to dieticians or trainers and show them that feeling their best is possible and empowering,” she explains. By focusing on those without professional resources, she hopes to create a measurable impact on the national health system and empower women to feel their best from the inside out.
Despite her rising profile, Lauren-Marie remains deeply connected to her roots, crediting her mother as the woman who paved her way. “She taught me my values, has always guided me, and pushed me to be the best version of myself,” she notes, adding that her mother’s support has been “everything” throughout this journey. When the cameras are away and the heels come off, she recharges by spending quality time with her family and channeling her creativity into her passion for baking special occasion cakes. For Lauren-Marie, success is not measured by the crown she seeks, but by the positive change she can spark. Her message to married women everywhere remains a powerful call to action: “You don’t have to choose. You can pursue your dreams and show up fully for your family, at the same time. When your children see you chasing your goals and living your purpose, they learn something invaluable—that they, too, can achieve anything they set their minds to.”
