Who is the new Miss South Africa 2025?
Meet Qhawekazi Mazaleni, Miss South Africa 2025 – a speech-language therapist from the Eastern Cape redefining beauty with purpose, intellect and heart.
Growing up, I was one of those girls who never missed a beauty pageant. My sister and I would curl up on the couch, each picking our winner from the start and then watching right till the end to see who was right.
I was captivated by the gowns, the smiles, and the magic of it all.
Back then, pageants felt a little more about perfection – the flawless wave, the practiced answers, the shiny crowns.
But today, things have changed.
Miss South Africa has evolved into something deeper, something far more inspiring – and this year’s winner, Qhawekazi Mazaleni, embodies that transformation perfectly.
A Purpose-Driven Queen
Crowned at the dazzling finale at SunBet Arena in Pretoria, the Eastern Cape beauty stood out from the start – not just for her grace, but for her purpose.
A qualified Speech-Language Therapist and now a Masters student at Stellenbosch University, Qhawekazi’s passion lies in inclusive education and supporting children with communication challenges.
It’s a calling that feels beautifully symbolic, given that last year’s Miss South Africa, Mia Le Roux, was the first contestant with a hearing disability to wear the crown.
Together, their journeys tell a story of representation, diversity, and breaking barriers – proving that beauty truly speaks all languages.
The evening itself was a celebration of South African womanhood in all its forms.
Luyanda Zuma of KwaZulu-Natal was named first runner-up, while Gauteng’s Karabo Mareka took the second runner-up place.
Qhawekazi’s composure, intellect, and compassion made her the standout, reminding us that confidence is quiet – but deeply powerful.
A Change in Direction for Miss South Africa
Unlike in previous years, the Miss South Africa Organisation has confirmed that Qhawekazi will not compete at Miss Universe 2025, citing timing and strategic priorities.
It’s a pity, as she won’t have the chance to follow in the footsteps of South African expats Margaret Gardiner, Demi-Leigh Tebow (née Nel-Peters) and Zozibini Tunzi, who have proudly carried the Miss Universe crown.
A New Definition of Beauty
Watching her take the stage, I couldn’t help but think how far we’ve come.
The Miss South Africa crown is no longer just about who wears it – but about what she stands for.
And Qhawekazi Mazaleni stands for intelligence, purpose, and the beauty of using your voice to uplift others.