Ndavi’s Miss Universe costume reflects her Tsonga culture
Miss South Africa will not only be representing her own country when she takes part in the Miss Universe competition, but also pay homage to the rise of Africa as a continent with an influence on global pop culture.
Last week, reigning title holder, Ndavi Nokeri, revealed both a farewell gown and her national costume that she will wear at the 71st Miss Universe pageant, which takes place in New Orleans, Louisiana, in the US on January 14, 2023. The reveal took place at The Maslow Hotel Sandton and was emceed by Miss South Africa 2019 and Miss Universe 2019 Zozibini Tunzi and featured praise singer Masingita Shimbambu. Nokeri’s extended family was all in attendance including her father Moses and her mother Betty, her brothers Ntwanano and Nyiko, and her sisters Fanisa, Cindy, Molcy, and Vutshilo.
“The national costume is of critical importance when it comes to showcasing the country of the pageant contestant, and it is also one of the favourite events of Miss Universe fans and followers. We always put a lot of effort into it because it is where we can be proudly South African and really showcase the country on an international stage,” said creative director Werner Wessels. “This year we wanted the national costume to have a distinctly African feel. We love the fact that Ndavi is proudly Tsonga.
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It is at the very core of who she is, and so part of the costume is inspired by her Tsonga culture and it is beautifully represented in the choice and use of fabrics.” The inner costume is made by Sello Medupe of Scalo Designs. “I am delighted to be showcasing raw African culture in a modern way,” said Medupe. The national costume also includes a set of wings. “One part of the wing will be the South African flag which we are proud to carry across the world stage. However, there’s another element that we really wanted to showcase, which is that Ndavi is part of a greater global community and is proudly African.
“The other part of the wing features all 54 African countries to emphasise we are part of a universal network. Preparation is at a peak and I can’t believe that in a month’s time I will be heading to the US to represent South Africa. It’s a real ‘pinch me moment’ and a dream come true for me,” said Nokeri. “I am delighted that my national costume incorporates my Tsonga culture. From the very beginning of my Miss South Africa journey, I always wanted people to know that I was standing for the Tsonga people because growing up as a child I felt as if we were under-represented. “At the same time, we’ve incorporated the fact that I’m South African and African,” Nokeri concluded.
