A single mum from Reading has secured a spot in the grand final of Miss Africa GB next month.

Sarah Sakala, who also owns Sakala Cleaning Service in Tilehurst, will represent Reading at the pageantry which is set to take place in Bromley, Kent on October 26.

The event presents a unique opportunity for Sarah who was born in Zambia, and moved to England when she was 14.

She hopes that her journey to the grand final will inspire other women who aspire for success despite challenges.

As a mother of two teenage boys and a business owner, she continues to navigate through life's trials in her mid 30s with unwavering determination.

Describing her path, Sarah said: "Arriving in a new country as a teenager presented some challenges for me, but that only spurred me on to pursue my dreams.

"I’ve continued to face challenges in my life, but I truly believe that we all have it within us to turn our dreams into reality.

"I am proud to be representing Reading at Miss Africa GB - and I want to inspire any women who feel they are struggling to make a life they truly want, because of circumstances that have had an adverse impact on their dreams."

Sarah's journey to Miss Africa GB was not without setbacks.

She had to grapple with a slew of rejections from modelling agencies before securing her place in the finals of the pageant.

She said: "I have always been interested in modelling and beauty pageants.

"I applied to many agencies with no success, so this was my last attempt to try in my mid 30s – I truly thought I was too old to get into a beauty pageant, but I applied anyway."

Sarah's sons are her main source of motivation and she hopes to be a beacon of achievement for them.

She said: "My sons are a big part of my motivation.

"Anything I can do to show them that they can pursue their dreams is worthwhile and to be a finalist in Miss Africa GB is an amazing example.

"I am excited to share my story and grateful for the opportunity."

Balancing her African roots and British nationality, she hopes to continue inspiring women like her while breaking barriers of expectations and stereotypes in beauty contests.

Lending her support to several charities, she is an ambassador focused on the welfare of the elderly, disabled and autistic children in Africa and the UK.

Her business practices are also committed to eco-conservation.

Sarah's determined pursuit of her aspirations, despite the odds, undoubtedly serves as an inspiration to many – women, mothers and residents of Reading.

As she moves forward in her journey, Sarah aims to keep breaking barriers, challenging stereotypes, and empowering others towards achieving their dreams.