By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Caption: Eastern Cape’s model Qhawekazi Mazaleni crowned Miss South Africa 2025. Picture: X/@Miss-SA.
Qhawekazi Mazaleni has been crowned Miss SA 2025 at the Sun International’s SunBet Arena at Time Square in Pretoria.
The 24-year-old was elated when was announced as the winner during a glittering ceremony on Saturday.
Luyanda Zuma was named first princess, while Karabo Mareka took the second princess spot.
This year’s event was hosted by television presenter and actress Nomalanga Shozi and South African media personality Pamela Mtanga.
The judging panel included former Miss South Africa & Miss Universe Runner-Up Dr Tamaryn Green, journalist Heidi Gioko, actress Cindy Mahlangu, former Miss South Africa Ndavi Nokeri, and brand strategist Thebe Ikalafeng.
Mazaleni takes over from Miss South Africa 2024 Mia Le Roux, whose reign was extended for two months as the organisers ushered in a new era.
Le Roux (28) was born in Sasolburg, Free State, and raised in Oudtshoorn, Western Cape. She was diagnosed with profound hearing loss at the age of one and says her community rallied behind her to give her the gift of hearing, inspiring her desire to make a positive impact and break barriers.
Mazaleni will receive a prize package worth over R3 million. This includes a R1 million cash prize, a Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupé and a three-bedroom penthouse apartment for her year of reign.
However, Mazaleni will not represent South Africa at the 74th Miss Universe competition next month.
The Miss South Africa Organisation confirmed earlier this month that the 2025 titleholder will not compete internationally due to time constraints and ongoing restructuring.