Raylene Fredericks. Photos: Riaan Victor Photography
Moving to Saldanha Bay 18 years ago gave meaning to Raylene Fredericks’ life. Up to that point the soft-spoken beauty who holds the titles of Ms Hope Western Cape and 1st Runner Up Ms Hope SA 2016 felt that she was not living her true life.
‘Each one of us has a story to tell’
But 18 years ago when Raylene’s family moved to Saldanha Bay she simply ached for her hometown of Atlantis. She remembers shedding tears over the move. But gradually a change came about and Raylene says, “I discovered the reason and purpose for the move: to fulfil God’s work and live out my purpose.”
When the pastor of Raylene’s church asked her to speak at a woman’s month event she protested: “What? Me?” Today she understands. “Each one of us has a story to tell that can uplift another person. Nothing is by chance. I became involved from there.”
Raylene enjoying time out on Melkbosstrand beach.
The West Coast formed her
Since those early days of settling into the Saldanha Bay community Raylene has also become involved with a soup kitchen and a crayon collection for children in crèches and hospitals. She is also an outspoken critic of bullying, urging victims to speak out. “Wherever I can, I try and help others. I found out this is why we moved to Saldanha Bay,” Raylene says. “The West Coast with its beauty has moulded and shaped me into the woman I am today.”
Quinlene (right) challenged Raylene to enter the pageant.
The beauty pageant
Taking part in a beauty pageant was something Raylene had never planned. Her daughter Quinlene challenged her to do so, and entered the Hope pageant along with her. Started by Mrs United Nations South Africa 2014, Ingrid Burger, this is “a pageant system for children, men and women who are passionate about making a significant difference in their community, touching the lives of others and being a positive role model.”
Both mom and daughter won titles, with Quinlene winning the title of Miss Hope West Coast. Now they plan to take part in the international version of the Hope pageant which will be held at the V&A Waterfront amphitheatre from 22-27 November.
Come November Raylene will take part in the international version of the pageant.
Raylene is pragmatic about the possibility of winning. She says, “Should I win I will definitely use it as a platform to help others. Although I strongly believe that one does not need a title or sash or crown to help those in need. It will help me to assist more people in need through my various charities and create awareness of a charity very close to my heart called Ribbons 4 Roses.” Here’s holding thumbs that you win, Raylene!
