Miss South Africa 2025, Qhawekazi Mazaleni, returned to her home in Eastern Cape for the first time after being crowned.
Her homecoming tour started in the streets of Mthatha, a place not too far from birthplace of the late former president Nelson Mandela. She received a hero’s welcome in a warm and celebratory tour. Qhawekazi was driven through the streets of Mthatha as she greeted gathered locals.
The 24-year-old speech therapist from Eastern Cape became the favourite girl next door when she began documenting her community service journey in Mamelodi, Pretoria.
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Her next stop was her hometown in Dutywa, where she was set to meet her supporters in Mbashe LG Mall. The crowd greeted her with bouquets of flowers and presented her with a portrait of her face, beaming with love and pride at the victory of their own.
In 2019, fellow Dutywa resident Zozibini Tunzi, dazzled the world as she was crowned Miss Universe. Residents came in their numbers to support one of their own, as the 24-year-old returned to the town she calls home.
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Qhawekazi’s final stop was a local primary school, where she distributed gifts to children. From the pictures shared, the school children were full of smiles and excitement.
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Also see: Miss SA Qhawekazi Mazaleni looks back at memorable night