Qhawekazi Mazaleni, the newl crowned Miss South Africa 2025 didn’t just step into a role of beauty and grace — she stepped into a purpose far greater than herself. With quiet confidence and a voice that carries the heartbeat of her generation, Qhawekazi represents a new kind of leadership: one rooted in empathy, accountability, and a fierce commitment to transformation.
“Leadership involves responsibility,” she shares with calm conviction. “I want to be an ambassador with deep purpose and a voice that reflects this country. I intend to take Empower Youth Africa very seriously during my reign and ensure that everything I and my fellow finalists do is anchored in impact — measurable, meaningful impact.” –
Her words reflect the essence of the Miss South Africa Organisation’s new direction — one that sees beauty and influence not as ends in themselves, but as powerful tools to drive social change.
Empower Youth Africa: Purpose in Action
This year, Qhawekazi steps into her reign as the first ambassador of Empower Youth Africa (EYA) — a bold initiative launched by the Miss South Africa Organisation to create real, scalable solutions that uplift women and youth.
Through this platform, Qhawekazi and her fellow finalists are championing five key pillars:
- Youth Unemployment
- Entrepreneurship and Skills Development
- Access to Education
- Health and Wellness
- Civic Engagement and Pan-African Collaboration
These aren’t just topics on a vision board — they are lived realities for millions of young South Africans. And for Qhawekazi, each represents an opportunity to bridge the gap between potential and progress.
Her approach to leadership is refreshingly grounded. She speaks not of titles, but of teamwork; not of accolades, but of action. “This is not about being seen,” she says. “It’s about being of service.”
A Crown Rooted in Purpose
For decades, the Miss South Africa Organisation has stood as a beacon for empowerment, evolving with each era to meet the changing needs of South African women. Under the patronage of Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe, the organisation continues to champion authenticity, courage, and purpose-driven leadership.
“It is such a pleasure to see Qhawekazi crowned as Miss South Africa 2025,” says Dr. Moloi-Motsepe. “She is a shining example of excellence and embodies the values that drive Empower Youth Africa. Her leadership will inspire a generation to rise, dream, and take action.”
This alignment between platform and purpose is what sets Miss South Africa apart — it’s no longer just a pageant; it’s a movement that equips young women to lead, innovate, and transform communities from the inside out.
The Power of Collective Action
At the heart of Empower Youth Africa is unity. The programme brings together all nine Miss South Africa 2025 finalists, encouraging collaboration instead of competition. Together, they will design and implement initiatives that have measurable social impact — proof that transformation is not a solo act, but a shared journey.
“Empowerment is contagious,” Qhawekazi reflects. “When one woman rises, she creates the light that allows others to rise too.”
A Reign to Remember
As Qhawekazi Mazaleni embarks on her year as Miss South Africa, her message is clear: this crown is a calling. Her reign is not about perfection, but about presence — showing up, speaking out, and leading with love.
Through the Empower Youth Africa initiative, she hopes to ignite a spirit of service and purpose in every young person she encounters. Her story reminds us that true beauty lies in the courage to take responsibility for the world around us.