Durban-born breast cancer researcher and advocate, Jesmika Singh, is proving that beauty, intelligence and purpose can coexist, as she competes for both the prestigious Miss World South Africa and Miss Universe South Africa titles.

The 27-year-old, who was born in Durban and is currently based in Cape Town, has dedicated her life to advancing breast cancer research while empowering communities through education and advocacy.

A PhD candidate and breast cancer researcher, Singh has built a platform that reaches more than a million people across South Africa.

Her work has also helped raise close to R100, 000 for causes aimed at improving awareness, treatment and support for those affected by the disease.

For Singh, the fight against breast cancer is deeply personal. The daughter of Amar Singh and the late Penny Singh, she lost her mother to breast cancer at a young age.

The tragedy became a defining moment that shaped the course of her life and career. “I lost my mother to the disease when I was young, and that loss did not just change me – it directed me. I have worked closely with patients, families, clinicians and organisations across South Africa. Over time, grief became purpose,” she said.

Singh has completed multiple degrees focused on improving breast cancer treatments and outcomes and is currently pursuing her PhD, with research centred on improving treatment efficacy and accessibility.

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Beyond the laboratory, she is committed to ensuring that scientific research translates into meaningful improvements in patient care.

“My goal is for evidence-based solutions to leave the journals and reach the people who need them,” she explained. Her journey has also been influenced by her cultural heritage. She recalls struggling with her identity while growing up, often feeling pressured to distance herself from her roots.

“My journey with my cultural identity has not always been easy. Growing up, I was often teased for my heritage and for years I tried to distance myself from it to fit into spaces not built for me,” she said.

Today, however, she proudly embraces her heritage and sees South Africa’s diversity as one of its greatest strengths.

“Being proudly South African means being an amalgamation of cultures and histories. I don’t just represent one community – I represent the South Africa that is possible when we embrace every thread of who we are,” she shared.

One cultural tradition that remains close to her heart is the practice of family members gathering for thirteen days after the passing of a loved one to share meals, songs and support.

“Keeping this tradition alive matters because we live in a world that rushes past pain – and this practice does the opposite,” she said.

As she prepares to take the national pageant stage, Singh hopes to use the platform to amplify conversations around breast cancer, healthcare accessibility and community support. She believes leadership is about service rather than status.

“A leader is not someone who needs the fame, the accolades, or the loudest voice. A leader upskills those around them, builds their confidence, equips them with the tools to excel – and then holds the door wide open while cheering them on,” she continued.

Known for her optimism and ability to connect with people from all walks of life, Singh believes these qualities have helped her navigate grief, setbacks and challenges throughout her journey.

“My optimism was not given to me – it was built through grief, failure, rejection and uncertainty,” she continued.

While balancing the demands of research, advocacy and pageantry, Singh remains focused on her ultimate goal: creating meaningful change for breast cancer patients and their families.

Whether she secures the Miss World South Africa or Miss Universe South Africa crown, Singh says her mission remains unchanged – to turn personal loss into lasting impact and to inspire others to embrace their identity, purpose and potential.