President Cyril Ramaphosa has sent his warmest congratulations to the Eastern Cape’s Qhawekazi Mazaleni who was crowned the 2025 Miss South Africa.
On X, the President said the newest national flag bearer is an advocate for the empowerment of women and for the education of the nation’s youth, adding that her vision for these causes bodes well for her reign and beyond.
Ramaphosa who wished the queen well said, “Qhawekazi, and I extend my good wishes to deserving runners-up Luyanda Zuma and Karabo Mareka.
Report gathered that Mazaleni, a 24-year-old speech and language therapist from Gonubie in the Eastern Cape, was crowned Miss South Africa 2025 at the SunBet Arena in Pretoria on Saturday night.
Mazaleni, who succeeds Mia le Roux, beat eight other finalists to claim the coveted title. Luyanda Zuma was announced as the first princess, while Karabo Mareka took second princess.
A Stellenbosch University graduate, Mazaleni is currently pursuing her Master’s degree at the University of Pretoria, focusing on autism.
Fluent in isiXhosa, English, and Afrikaans, she is also learning Sepedi and isiZulu reflecting her passion for language and inclusivity.
Beyond her academic achievements, Mazaleni has written a children’s book in isiXhosa aimed at improving literacy and numeracy, which she plans to translate into all South African languages.Speaking moments after her crowning, Mazaleni said, “As your Miss SA, my heart’s intent is to ensure inclusive education. You are not just Miss South Africa, you are an agent of change. I am going to create a legacy of change.”
Her reign is expected to focus on advocacy for inclusive education and multilingual learning, aligning her platform with national priorities around literacy and youth empowerment.
Mazaleni’s win marks a new era for the Miss South Africa pageant, one that celebrates beauty with purpose, intellect, and heart. Her older sister, Homba finished in the Top five of Miss South Africa 2023.
