Miss South Africa 2020 top three finalist Natasha Joubert, who competed at Miss Universe, has been charting on Twitter’s top trends as she is being criticised for re-entering the Miss South Africa pageant, with many calling her out to give others a chance.
The entrepreneur and model placed as second-runner-up to winner Shudufhadzo Musida in 2020. In May 2021, Natasha also appeared at the Miss Universe pageant on behalf of the Miss SA pageant but did not make it in the top 20 finalists.
Miss SA’s top 30 finalists list was released and the B.Com Marketing graduate stood out as a familiar face, which caused a huge stir among social media users who have made it clear that they were not thrilled about her return, and have called out the competition for what they claim is “unfair.”
Here is what tweeps had to say:
I feel like its unfair, i didnt even know that someone who has been on top 3 can enter again,it would be better if it was someone who didnt make it at all.
— Nwabisa (@NwabisaSeptemb3) May 25, 2023
They are empowering the same people
— Ntokazi (@MissNtokazi) May 25, 2023
“Love Natasha but she honestly had her time with miss universe where Shudu as Miss SA wasn’t allowed to represent SA. Love the diversity love the fresh faces. Honestly great pick this year. but I wish you could’ve given new girls a chance,” wrote another fan.
However, Natasha is not the only contestant returning to the pageant stage this year and placed in the top 30 finalists. Former contestants who placed in the top 10 are Jordan Van der Vyver (2020), Keaoleboga Nkashe (2022) and Melissa Nayimuli (2020).
In 2019, Zozibini Tunzi re-entered the pageant for the second time, going on to win not only the Miss SA crown but the Miss Universe one as well.
According to The South African, pageant spokesperson Janine Walker told the publication that “Natasha wanted to enter again, and Miss SA Organisation rules allow her participation.”
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