A speech therapist, Master's student, and now a queen. Qhawekazi Mazaleni, 24, from Gonubie in East London, was crowned Miss South Africa 2025 at the SunBet Arena in Tshwane over the weekend, taking the title from outgoing queen Mia le Roux at the pageant's 67th edition. Luyanda Zuma and Karabo Mareka were named First and Second Princess on the night.
The finale, hosted by Nomalanga Shozi and Pamela Mtanga, was a full evening of energy and intention. Performances from Makhadzi and Langa Mavuso kept the crowd alive, but it was the launch of Empower Youth Africa (EYA), a new flagship initiative from the Miss South Africa Organisation, that signalled something bigger was happening. Qhawekazi will serve as the initiative's first ambassador, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, health, and civic engagement for young South Africans.
Long before the crown, Qhawekazi was already doing the work. Her Master's research at the University of Pretoria centres on autism, and she has written and published an isiXhosa children's book designed to help young readers learn to read and count in their home language. Advocacy was never a talking point for her. It was already her life.
In her post-win remarks, she was clear about what this moment means: "Our mission is rooted in meaningful change in our communities which will continue far beyond my reign. This journey is not mine alone to walk, but I carry this incredible community that we have formed together." With a platform, a purpose, and a published book already behind her, Qhawekazi Mazaleni is one to watch closely.
Originally published by Bella Naija Beauty.