By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Ndavi Nokeri has been crowned Miss SA 2022 Photo Credit
Ndavi Nokeri was crowned as Miss South Africa 2022 on Saturday evening in a glittering function at Sun Arena,Times Square.
The 23-year-old is from Tzaneen in Limpopo, has a BCom Investment Management degree from the University of Pretoria and is currently working for an asset management firm.
“Having the support of my province and its people means so much to me. They are the shoulders I am standing on today. I know that I have to show up 100 percent every time. I am proof that even someone from a small village and humble beginnings can achieve their ambitions and show that their dreams are valid,” Nokeri said after making the top 10 finalists.
On Tuesday, 9 August, the Miss South Africa judges all came together to start the Top 10 judging.
The panel consists of influential personalities, including former South African public protector Thuli Madonsela, reigning Miss Universe Harnaaz Sandhu of India, former Miss Universe Zozibini Tunzi (2019), and former Miss World Rolene Strauss (2014).
Other judges include award-winning investigative journalist Devi Sankaree Govender, businesswoman and Miss South Africa 1990 Suzette van der Merwe, and actor and TV personality Thando Thabethe.
Miss South Africa 2022 will take home prizes and sponsorships worth more than R3 million. Miss SA winner, Nokeri will also get R1 million in cash from the Miss South Africa organisation.
There were musical performances from Nadia Nakai, Rouge, Boity, Elaine, Ndoni, Llysio and a showstopping performance from Makhadzi.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has sent his congratulatory message to the newly crowned Miss South Africa Nokeri
“I was most inspired by your reflection on our shared responsibility as a nation in ensuring a sustainable, innovative and inclusive South Africa that unlocks opportunities for all, said Ramaphosa.”
The Miss SA runner-up, Ayanda Thabethe, will also receive a R150,000 cash prize.
All three women will have the chance to win other crowns, titles and prizes when they go on to represent SA on the global stage at the Miss World, Miss Universe and Miss Supranational pageants.