Lebogang Msimanga has voluntarily withdrawn from the Miss SA competition after making it to the Top 10 of the pageant.
LEBOGANG MSIMANGO WITHDRAWS FROM MISS SA
Just a few weeks after announcing the Miss SA Top 10, the Miss SA Organisation has revealed that there are now just nine finalists. Lebogang Msimanga, who hails from KwaZulu-Natal, voluntarily withdrew from the pageant.
“After deep reflection, she (Msimanga) concluded that stepping back at this time would best serve her individual path and well-being,” read a statement.
The Miss SA Organisation also revealed that there will not be a replacement.
“The organisation respects and honours her decision, recognising that true empowerment includes the freedom to make choices aligned with one’s authentic self,” read a statement from the organisation.
“Each finalist has been selected for their unique voice and vision and the competition will proceed with the remaining candidates who are fully committed to the EYA (Empower Youth Africa) mission and the responsibilities of representing SA on the continental stage,” read the statement.
MISS SA CO-CHAIRS
Former Miss SA titleholders Basetsana Kumalo and Peggy-Sue Khumalo have been appointed as co-chairs of the pageant.
“Today, Miss South Africa still plays this critical role, honouring the contributions of women in our society. It’s important that the platform continues to empower women to use their voice, to rise, and to become leaders who will become entrepreneurs, create jobs, and hold high office in the c-suite,” said Basetsana.
“When I look at this new Miss South Africa era, it’s rooted in the global conversations that have been happening in our country with the G20. As a country we are reflecting on whether we, as people, government, and business have done enough. What we need now is more activists in our country that will champion social change and social sustainability,” said Peggy-Sue.
This comes after Miss SA Top 10 finalist Bridgette Jones was “cleared” of bullying allegations.