A 60-year-old nurse from Kenilworth says she is still a winner, despite not coming away with the crown from her first ever beauty pageant.

Manage Matlala was one of the finalists in Miss/Mrs Africa UK which was decided at the Mercure Manchester Piccadilly Hotel earlier this month.

Having fulfilled a lifelong dream to even enter the competition, Manage has been spreading the message that age is just a number over the past few months.

And while the title was ultimately lifted by Heerani Woodun from Mauritius, the nurse of 40 years said it had been an incredible experience.

Manage at the Mercure Manchester Piccadilly Hotel for the final earlier this month (image supplied)

"Although I may have not walked away with the crown, I am of the belief that any woman who ever has the opportunity to walk across that stage and showcase their beauty, talent and smarts is a winner in their own right," she said. 

"They have an experience that few will ever experience and that is to be recognized to the greatest extent. 

"I want to further congratulate the winner of the pageant Heerani Woodun from Mauritius, may she reign with the greatest honor and African pride. 

"May she inspire the next generation of aspirants to want to empower and grow all African in the Diaspora and on the continent."

After reaching the final, the mother of one was invited to the South African Embassy, and has been embracing the opportunity to share her store.

Manage, who has worked in Leamington Spa for the past 13 years, also said she has received a wave of support on social media over the past few months.

Manage at the South African Embassy (image supplied)

She explained: "Having been part of this pageant has not only given me a boost to know and value my worth but it has also pushed me to want to endeavour more into making a difference in the lives of others and through an array of other fields where people need help. 

"The spirit of charity has been re-energized in me to strive to do more to help where I can. 

"The honour of representing my country and flying the South African flag high has been a wonderful experience for myself and I hope I did so with dignity and left a beautiful impression of what South Africa represents."

She added: "I have learnt so much throughout this pageant. 

"I have been empowered greatly and I pledge myself to not only withhold what I have learnt but to pass on the lessons and help uplift the young, mature and everyone else in between to always strive for the best, to keep going and to never let any situation of life that sees to keep one down stop you from pursuing what you have purposed in your heart."