“The 90s were a critical time in our history. It was a new era, underpinned by values of inclusivity and heritage. Young women became the face of hope. Today, Miss South Africa still plays this critical role, honouring the contributions of women in our society. It’s important that the platform continues to empower women to use their voice, to rise, and to become leaders who will become entrepreneurs, create jobs, and hold high office in the c-suite,” says Basetsana Kumalo.
“When I look at this new Miss South Africa era, it’s rooted in the global conversations that have been happening in our country with the G20. As a country, we are reflecting on whether we, as people, government, and business, have done enough. What we need now is more activists in our country that will champion social change and social sustainability,” says Peggy Sue Khumalo.
Empower Youth Africa (EYA): A Movement for the Continent
On Tuesday, the organisation launched Empower Youth Africa (EYA), a socially conscious initiative that transforms the confidence and poise of its contestants into a force for tackling the pressing challenges faced by young people across South Africa and on the African Continent.
At the heart of this new era is a commitment to social impact. EYA represents the Miss South Africa platform’s most significant addition yet: a long-term movement that will guide the organisation’s influence towards creating meaningful change, with a focus on women and youth empowerment.
“Every finalist and eventual winner is regarded as an ambassador, entrusted with both a national and continental mandate to champion Africa’s youth. This duty is not symbolic. It is action-oriented to promote tangible interventions that will address youth unemployment, encourage positive lifestyles, and inspire civic engagement,” says Audrey Lewat, Operations Manager at Motsepe Group.
Finalists Unite Around a Shared Vision
Each finalist for 2025 has already begun identifying the industries where they believe their influence can meaningfully serve Africa’s youth. Over the past ten days, they have participated in immersive activities with the Miss South Africa Organisation in preparation for the finale.
The finalists have workshopped their mission statements, reflecting on challenges they have faced and overcome, alongside coaches and other inspiring women in business, sports and leadership. Collectively, the past ten days have shifted outlooks from women competing against one another to women collaborating to fulfil a shared vision.
A Finalist’s Voluntary Withdrawal: Honouring Personal Journeys
The Miss South Africa Organisation announces that one contestant has made the decision to voluntarily withdraw from the competition. After deep reflection, she concluded that stepping back at this time would best serve her individual path and well-being.
The organisation respects and honours her decision, recognising that true empowerment includes the freedom to make choices aligned with one’s authentic self. In keeping with the spirit of this new era, which prioritises purpose, authenticity, and meaningful participation, the organisation will not be replacing her position.
The Grand Finale: Your Vote Counts
The Miss South Africa 2025 Grand Finale will take place on Saturday 25 October 2025 at SunBet Arena. This spectacular evening will celebrate the finalists’ journeys, showcase their dedication to youth empowerment, and crown South Africa’s next ambassador to the continent.
Public voting is now open. South Africans are invited to support their favourite finalists by voting via the Miss SA App. Voting closes on 24 October at 6pm.
