This year Miss SA will not be representing South Africa at the Miss Universe pageant, here’s why.
WHY MISS SA IS NOT COMPETING AT MISS UNIVERSE?
For as long as we can remember, one of the top three at the Miss SA pageant would represent South Africa at the prestigious Miss Universe pageant. However, this year things have changed.
Earlier this year, Miss SA CEO Stephanie Weil stepped down. It was later revealed that Motsepe Group of Companies will now be taking over. In October this year, Qhawekazi Mazaleni was crowned Miss SA.
However, Melissa Nayimuli is the beauty queen who will be representing South Africa at Miss Universe. Melissa competed for her spot to compete at Miss Universe after African Beauty International acquired the license, succeeding the previous Miss South Africa pageant system.
African Beauty International appointed Bokang Montjane-Tshabalala the new national director for Miss Universe South Africa.
Take a look at Melissa’s national costume here.
SOUTH AFRICA’S HISTORY AT MISS UNIVERSE
A country of winners! South Africa has won the Miss Universe title three times. Margaret Gardiner was the first South African woman to be crowned Miss Universe. Followed by Demi-Leigh Tebow in 2017.
South Africa’s beloved Zozibini Tunzi won the title in 2019. She became the longest-reigning Miss Universe, holding the title for a total of 467 days from December 2019 to May 2021.
This was due to the pageant being postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2018, Tamaryn Green was placed first runner-up. In 2021, Lalela Mswane was crowned second runner-up.
Melissa is currently in Thailand.
“t’s PAGEANT WEEK and the feels are real! Focusing on radiating confidence, staying rooted in my WHY, and embracing each day with a heart of gratitude 🙏🏾 ❤️👑,” she wrote.
The Miss Universe finale takes place on Friday 21 November in Pak Kret, Nonthaburi, Thailand. Victoria Kjær Theilvig of Denmark will crown her successor, the new Miss Universe at the end of the event.