A New Era of Purpose: Meet Qhawekazi Mazaleni, Miss South Africa 2025
South Africa has a new queen, Qhawekazi Mazaleni, a 24-year-old from the Eastern Cape who embodies a powerful blend of intellect, compassion, and a deep commitment to social change. Crowned Miss South Africa 2025 at a glittering ceremony in Pretoria, she is a qualified speech therapist, author, and passionate advocate for inclusive education, signaling a new era for the pageant where purpose and impact take center stage.
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| Meet Qhawekazi Mazaleni, Miss South Africa 2025 |
A Queen Defined by Intellect & Grace
Born in Gonubie, East London, Qhawekazi holds a degree in Speech, Language and Hearing Therapy from Stellenbosch University. She is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Speech-Language Pathology at the University of Pretoria, with a research focus on Autism. Her therapeutic work with children is central to her identity, driven by a passion to bridge communication gaps.
A published author, her children's book in isiXhosa, "Amasele Amdaka," was inspired by one of her patients and teaches children to read and count. She believes in the power of storytelling as a uniting force, hoping her work fosters cultural awareness and helps combat illiteracy.
A Reign with a Clear Mission
Qhawekazi entered Miss South Africa with a clear commitment: to bridge educational gaps. She believes winning the crown provides the foundation to tackle the nation's rising illiteracy rates. "Representation gives them permission to dream,” she said, highlighting the need for children to see themselves reflected in role models and literature. Her wish is to launch workshops for teachers and parents in underserved communities to help them create their own educational resources.
More About Qhawekazi
- Motto: "It's only embarrassing if you're embarrassed. Don't be afraid to be seen trying."
- She ran her first half-marathon last year and crochets her own clothes.
- Role Models: Gale Mabalane and Keke Palmer.
- Favourite Meal: Chilli Beef Stew with Steamed bread (amadombolo).
- Happiest Moment: Graduating in 2023.
- Most Valued Quality in Friends: Mutual honesty, even when it's difficult.
- Her journey into pageantry began at Beaconhurst High School, where she was crowned First Princess.
Qhawekazi Mazaleni Gallery:
Frequently Asked Questions
Qhawekazi Mazaleni, a 24-year-old speech therapist, author, and literacy advocate from the Eastern Cape, was crowned Miss South Africa 2025.
She holds a degree in Speech, Language and Hearing Therapy from Stellenbosch University and is currently completing her Master's in Speech-Language Pathology with a focus on Autism at the University of Pretoria.
Her reign will focus on bridging gaps in education by tackling South Africa's literacy challenges, particularly in the foundation phase, and promoting cultural awareness through storytelling.
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