Pretoria – Speech therapist Qhawekazi Mazaleni from the Eastern Cape has been crowned Miss South Africa 2025 after a glittering ceremony at SunBet Arena, Times Square, on Saturday, 25 October.
The 24-year-old was elated when she was announced as the winner from a field of ten finalists, following thousands of initial entries for the prestigious title.
Luyanda Zuma (23) from Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu-Natal was crowned first princess, whilst Karabo Mareka (27) from Alexandra in Johannesburg was named second princess.
Mazaleni takes over from Miss South Africa 2024 Mia le Roux, whose reign was extended for two months as organisers ushered in a new era for the competition.
As the new Miss SA, Mazaleni will receive a prize package worth over R3 million, including a R1 million cash prize, a Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupé, and a three-bedroom penthouse apartment for her year of reign.
This year’s event was hosted by television presenter and actress Nomalanga Shozi and South African media personality Pamela Mtanga. Miss SA 2023 Natasha Vermaak and Dr Fezile Mkhize, who held the title of Mister Supranational in 2024, hosted the AFI red carpet.
The ceremony featured electrifying performances from award-winning singer Makhadzi as well as music sensations Ciza, Lordkez, and Langa Mavuso.
In a celebration of womanhood, one of the evening’s highlights was a collaborative performance by musicians Demi Lee Moore, Bucie, Karen Zoid, and Xolly Mncwango alongside a local school choir.
New Judging Panel
This year’s Miss SA pageant, broadcast live on S3 and Mzansi Magic (DStv Channel 161), featured a new judging panel consisting of former titleholders.
The panel included Miss South Africa 2018 Dr Tamryn Green Nxumalo and Ndavi Nokeri, who held the title in 2022. Actress Cindy Mahlangu, award-winning broadcast journalist Heidi Giokos, and brand strategist Thebe Ikalafeng rounded off the judging panel.
Focus on Social Impact
The contestants for the 76th Miss South Africa pageant demonstrated substance and depth throughout the competition process.
The newly crowned pageant queen will focus her reign on creating meaningful impact on key challenges facing the country, including women’s empowerment, youth unemployment, access to education, and civic engagement.
Mazaleni’s background as a speech therapist positions her well to advocate for communication and educational access issues during her reign.
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