Buhle Xulu crowned Miss Soweto 2015

Soweto crowned its new beauty queen Buhle Xulu on Saturday, December 5, 2015, at the Soweto Theatre in Jabulani.

Xulu, 20, a University of Johannesburg BComm accounting student from Dube, has succeeded Lungile Buhale as the new reigning queen. Her goal is to establish literacy centres that will focus on teaching the youth of Soweto how to read and write.

That is how she wants to empower them – by giving them something that no-one will take from them. “I want to be an influential woman, an advocate for change,” she said.

Nthabiseng Kgasi from Protea Glen and Nokukhanya Kunene from Emdeni were crowned first and second princesses respectively.

Donald, Soweto’s Finest and Tappcussionists added to the entertainment line-up, while Jozi FM’s Mpho Putini and actor Thato Molamu did a fine job as MCs for the event. The judging panel included soap star Mapaseka Koetle, former Miss Universe Augustine Masilela, beauty and health editor Grace Mantjiu, Miss Heritage 2015 Ziphozinhle Ntlanganiso and socialite Shakes.

According to White Star Marketing Manager Mokhele Makhothi, “The judges made a clever choice in selecting Buhle. She will make a fine role model for girls of all ages, play an important role in defining the image of South African womanhood, and use her position to promote positive change in her community. She joins exceptional former queens like Basetsana Khumalo, Augustine Masilela, Doris Msibi and Lerato Kganyago, who have also worn the Miss Soweto crown.”

Buhle takes over the crown from Lungile Buhale, who says ending Miss Soweto is a bittersweet experience. “The year was a rollercoaster ride, with many highs and lows. It taught to me define the woman that I am becoming and I am sad to let it go. I am thankful for the platform that it has provided and wish Buhle all the best for her reign,” she says.

The queen walked away with grand prize of R10 000 in cash and a holiday cruise to Mozambique, sponsored by White Star, a year’s worth of hair services from Afro Nubian, R30 000 in jewellery from Lichaba Jewellery and year-long membership at Virgin Active.

The finalists’ hair and make-up were supplied by Afro Nubian, and garments for the finalists, MC Mpho Putini and judge Mapaseka Koetle were sponsored by Urban Zulu and White Star, while jewellery worth millions was sponsored by Lichaba Jewellery. Soweto Hotel also sponsored accommodation for the contestants.