THE 2022 MISS SOUTH AFRICA GRAND FINALE MORE POPULAR THAN EVER
Open up to the extraordinary with the village of Gavaza – producing the new Miss South Africa, Ndavi Nokeri, who’s a queen for all the people.
The Miss South Africa top 10 finalists are an extraordinary group of women. We need champions of enterprise, justice, mental health or better nutrition and the class of ’22 answered that call.
Judges included reigning Miss Universe Harnaaz Sandhu of India, former Miss Universe Zozibini Tunzi and former Public Protector Thuli Madonsela.
“I’m looking for a face of Miss South Africa that inspires hope and self reliance plus unity,” comments Thuli Madonsela.
This year featured a reality TV series on the Miss South Africa app, executive produced by Relebogile Mabotja.
“What I’m looking forward to the most for tonight is the show that the team and I put together. I’m so excited for the country to see how we really want to grow Miss South Africa as a brand. I’m also excited for the Top 10 Finalists – this is such an amazing and exciting night for them,” says Relebogile Mabotja.
For Miss SA 2021 and Miss Supranational 2022, Lalela Mswane, it is fulfilling to see the crown continue to inspire young women.
“I’m super excited to be handing the crown over tonight. I’m a bit emotional of course because this has been an amazing opportunity – it’s opened up so many doors – but I’m very excited for the next chapter too,” shares Lalela Mswane.
In the proud tradition of Miss South Africas taking global honours, we’re still celebrating Lalela being crowned Miss Supranational.
“It was the first time that a black lady has won. I’ve always said that this crown is not just about me, it’s not just about South Africa. It’s about so many women around the world who have felt small, unheard, unseen, marginalised. Just to show them that it can happen and that your dreams are valid,” comments Lalela.
The early mornings and late night preparations have been worth it for Ms S.A. CEO Stephanie Weil.
“You’re going to see glitz, glam… and the best part is that it is fully female run and there’s only females on stage, other than Loyiso. Female empowerment is what tonight is all about,” states Stephanie Weil.
Performers Nadia Nakai and Boity Thulo were up on stage to entertain and dazzle in outfits that tied in perfectly with the overall theme of the night.
This year’s designs were inspired by South African mineral treasures, a wardrobe that had Creative Director Werner Wessels in awe.
“We have never had the type of looks on stage that we are featuring tonight. It’s haute couture, it’s avant-garde, it’s fashion that I’ve always wanted to see and I’m hoping that pageantry goes in that direction. That it’s not just about glitzy dresses but is something unique and shows off South Africa’s talent to the best of its abilities,” explains Werner Wessels.
Five times a judge, this year Anele Mdoda played host, seeing the field narrow down to the final duo, featuring Limpopo’s Ndavi Nokeri and KZN’s Ayanda Thabethe.
Twenty-three-year-old Ndavi Nokeri walked away with the crown for Miss South Africa 2022. She hails from Tzaneen in Limpopo, has a BCom Investment Management degree from the University of Pretoria and works for an asset management firm.
“I’m living my dream and I am so excited for the journey ahead,” shares Ndavi Nokeri.
“How I plan to use the Miss South Africa platform to really bridge the gap is by advocating for educational equality. I really want to work with different stakeholders such as educational institutions so that we can ensure that learners from the rural areas also have access to all the resources and tools that they need to also become successful members of society,” she adds.
Educated women grow the wealth of a nation and in investment management consultant Ndavi, we have the proof of why a well educated child offers our country the best returns.
