Applications open for Miss Soweto

Set and filmed in a house in Soweto, the 13-part series will showcase the contestants from auditions to challenges, to the final crowning event at the end of October 2010. Weekly SMS competitions will be open to audiences to vote for their favourite contestant and win prizes.

"Of the applications received, 150 applicants will be selected who will then be reduced to 20 finalists who will enter the CMS house for ten days. While staying in the house, the 20 contestants will participate in challenges which will see eight ladies being eliminated from competing for the crown, however they do not get sent home. Each one will be placed in an internship on the production and learn new skills, from make-up artistry, artist management and public relations through to the various skills required in TV show production," explains Tumi Masemola, a director of Black Brain pictures and spokeswoman for CMS 2010.

Former ambassadors

"Miss Soweto 2010 offers more audience interaction, glamour and entertainment than ever before and a fantastic opportunity for the finalists to put themselves out into the public space and fast track their careers," adds Masemola. "An aspiring Miss Soweto needs to be up to the challenge of being far more than a pretty face though. She must shine as a graceful and dignified ambassador and role model for the youth of Soweto and South Africa."

Former contestants have done well - Augustine Masilela (1987) - Miss Universe, Basetsana Makgalemele (1990) - Miss South Africa, Doris Msibi (2000) - Mrs South Africa Globe, Miss Soweto Personality (2008), Mahlatse Mkhawana - 3rd place in Miss Earth 2009.

Applicants can collect entry forms from the following malls, phone +27 (0) 083 123 1CMS or online at www.misssoweto.co.za.