In a dazzling ceremony that celebrated both beauty and profound intellect, the SunBet Arena in Pretoria witnessed the crowning of a new queen with a powerful purpose. Qhawekazi Mazaleni, a 24-year-old speech therapist from the coastal town of Gonubie in the Eastern Cape, was crowned Miss South Africa 2025, ascending to the title at the 67th edition of the prestigious competition on Saturday night.
The event, which saw Mazaleni outshine 30 other remarkable contestants, was not just a personal victory but a moment of collective pride. The newly crowned first runner-up, Luyanda Zuma, graciously shared the spotlight in a night that underscored the evolving definition of South African beauty—one rooted in academic excellence, social advocacy, and a deep commitment to nation-building.
Mazaleni’s win is a testament to the power of perseverance and sisterhood. Her journey on the national stage began two years ago when she watched her elder sister, Homba Mazaleni, secure a Top 5 placement in the 2023 competition. That experience, she revealed in a post-win press conference, was not one of rivalry but of inspiration. “Watching Homba walk that stage with such grace and purpose lit a fire in me,” she shared, her voice brimming with emotion. “She showed me that our dreams, no matter how big, are valid. This crown is as much hers as it is mine.”
Beyond the glittering tiara, Mazaleni brings a formidable academic and professional pedigree. A graduate of Stellenbosch University, she is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology at the University of Pretoria. Her chosen advocacy is as timely as it is critical: championing inclusive education to tackle the nation’s deep-seated literacy challenges.
Her commitment is not merely theoretical. Demonstrating a proactive spirit, Mazaleni has already authored a children’s book in her mother tongue, isiXhosa. Her vision extends far beyond its pages; she has announced plans to translate the book into multiple South African languages and launch a series of community workshops. These initiatives aim to empower children with the foundational literacy skills they need to succeed, while also preserving and celebrating linguistic diversity.
“The ability to read and communicate effectively is the bedrock of every child’s future,” Mazaleni stated with the clarity of an expert in her field. “If we can ignite a love for reading in our children’s mother tongues, we build their confidence and unlock their potential. This is my mission.”
The significance of her victory resonated at the highest levels of government. Within hours of the announcement, congratulations poured in from President Cyril Ramaphosa and other political leaders. They hailed her win as a powerful symbol of women’s empowerment and a testament to the potential of South Africa’s youth when given access to quality education.
As the confetti settles, Qhawekazi Mazaleni steps into her reign not just as a beauty queen, but as a national advocate—a “Voice for Empowerment,” quite literally. She carries with her the hopes of a generation and the proof that a crown, when worn with purpose, can become a powerful tool for change.
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