By Lehlohonolo Lehana.

SABC3 aired the first episode of Crown Chasers and Lebohang Raputsoe became the first Miss South Africa finalist, to be voted out of Crown Chasers series.

In the first episode, viewers met the finalists in the running for the title of Miss South Africa 2023 and learned why they believe they should take the crown. They were also presented with their official sashes by series host Miss Universe 2019 Zozibini Tunzi and current Miss South Africa Ndavi Nokeri.

Judges Bonang Matheba and Leandie du Randt, along with guest judge Dr Tamaryn Green-Nxumalo, evaluated their performances at a networking event and during their first official photo shoot, with Raputsoe leaving at the end of the episode.

"Crown Chasers was a roller coaster of emotions; intimidating, fun, sad, exhausting and liberating. The crew was amazing to work with, and while some of the content was difficult to film, it helped strengthen my character," Raputsoe said.

Raputsoe, a 24-year-old HR professional with a Master's in Human Resources Management and degrees in Industrial Psychology and Labour Relations Management, described her Miss South Africa journey as "full of surprises" and a "huge step" out of her comfort zone. 

"I was nervous and in a constant state of disbelief. One day I was just Lebohang, and the next day I was a Miss South Africa 2023 finalist; what a dream. I met the most amazing ladies, who I now call my friends. It was short-lived but inspirational."

"I found the challenges on the day of the elimination the hardest as I am a heavy planner, and doing things spontaneously has never been one of my strengths. I am a very honest and realistic person, and believe that I could have done better. However, I also do not want to be too harsh on myself because I did my best. But I am always on a journey of self-development and will definitely work on the skills I need to polish."

"To everyone who supported me, I would like to say thank you. I am truly grateful to have represented everyone who believed in my dream just as much as I did. I would not be where I am without your love and support. You know me and my heart, and our journey does not end here. I will carry your love into the next opportunity that awaits me."

The second episode of Crown Chasers will be broadcast on Sunday, 16 July, at 16:00 on SABC3. 

In the second episode, the remaining contestants fly to Mauritius, where they are tasked with creating a travel vlog of their experience in travelling internationally, some for the first time. The finalists are also given a fun beach challenge followed by a photo shoot with swimwear from Imbe by former Miss South Africa Shudufhadzo Musida.

Miss South Africa 2023 will be crowned at the SunBet Arena at Time Square in Pretoria on Sunday, 13 August.