SA’s past beauties launch Miss SA 2019
ALEXANDRA – One lucky beauty's life-changing chance is about to begin.
Past Miss South Africa queens will crown one lucky girl the 2019 pageant winner on Women’s Day, 9 August.
The organisers of Miss SA said in a statement that there is R3 million in prize money and sponsorships for the glittering event. “The winner will walk away with R1 million in cash, a car and other fabulous prizes. The runner-up will take home R250 000 in cash and all 16 finalists will each receive R25 000.”
The five Miss SA winners to welcome the next African queen are Bokang Montjane-Tshabalala, 2010 winner; Rolene Strauss, 2014 winner and also Miss World 2014; Liesl Laurie, 2015 winner; Ntando Kunene-Mthethwa, 2016 winner; and current queen Tamaryn Green.
Strauss said, “Miss South Africa is the ultimate movement towards women empowerment. The platform creates opportunities for so many; from finalists to Miss South Africas and ultimately international participants. The growth I experienced as Miss South Africa did not only lead to the wonderful honour of winning Miss World but also, assisted me in surviving medical school when I went back to studying once my reign was over. This is a once-in-a-lifetime learning and life-changing opportunity.”
Echoing Strauss’ sentiments, Laurie said, “The moment my name was announced as queen, my life changed forever. A girl’s lifelong dream came true and the following day a woman’s reality began. It was a reality where the most magical Cinderella story started – from Eldorado Park to the world. My reign will always be one of the most important chapters of my life and that of many people from my township.” She said her achievement will forever be a beacon of hope for Eldorado residents and for many others in townships countrywide.
Kunene-Mthethwa said, “Laying down your truth in front of millions of people isn’t easy. Being the queen gives you confidence to publicly embrace who you are, flaws and all.” She highlighted the role of women in society, who shape the future through their chosen field of passion. “Just like in 1956 when more than 20 000 women staged a march on the Union Buildings in Pretoria to protest against the proposed amendments to the Urban Areas Act, it’s a powerful celebration of women from different races and backgrounds coming together.”
Current queen Green summed it all up, “This platform has empowered me, not only as a young South African wanting to make a difference in her community, but as a medical student and also as a woman. It’s not lost on me that a new Miss South Africa will be crowned on Women’s Day. The opportunity has been an integral part of the female South African story and how we as women are taking our place in society and championing the causes of our fellow women and the generations to follow us. I personally cannot wait to welcome a new woman into this illustrious sisterhood.”
The event will be held at the Sun Arena, Times Square, Pretoria. Entries open on 13 May and close on 10 June, with the 16 finalists announced on 11 July.
