Newly crowned Miss South Africa 2025, Qhawekazi Mazaleni, received a historic and heartfelt homecoming this past weekend as she returned to her birthplace, Falakahla Village in Ward 12, Dutywa, to celebrate her national triumph with the community that raised her.
Mazaleni’s victory at the Miss South Africa Finale marks a milestone for the Eastern Cape, with her achievement signaling pride, possibility, and progress for young people across the province. Her community hosted a remarkable celebration in her honour, reflecting the deep affection and admiration felt for her.
“Never in my life did I imagine that ikhaya-lam would host a celebration of this magnitude,” said Mazaleni. “The warmth, the pride, the singing, the joy – every moment reminded me of where I come from and why I do this work.”
Mazaleni’s homecoming weekend began with a jubilant welcome at Mthatha Airport, where she was greeted by the Executive Mayor, family, community members, and the media. A vibrant parade followed, filling the streets with singing, dancing, and waving crowds undeterred by the weather. The day featured thoughtful gifts, including handcrafted beaded regalia and a portrait by a local Dutywa artist, gestures Mazaleni described as deeply meaningful and unforgettable.
On Sunday, Mazaleni attended a Christmas service at her home church before joining a community luncheon hosted by Honourable Mayor Princess Faku. The programme included moving performances by autistic children, presented in partnership with the JR Autism Foundation – an especially poignant moment given Mazaleni’s commitment to inclusive education and her master’s research in autism within the field of Speech-Language Pathology.
Mazaleni, an author and dedicated education advocate, continues to champion her Empower Youth Africa (EYA) mandate with a strong focus on ensuring access to inclusive, culturally rooted learning. She is devoted to developing reading resources in home languages, believing that education is the cornerstone of breaking cycles of poverty and unemployment.
“Qhawekazi’s achievement is far more than the securing of a crown,” said PR Miss SA manager – Nhlanhla “It is powerful proof that every child from this here can rise, lead, and achieve anything they dream of.”
The celebrations extended to the Eastern Beachfront, where local artistsincluding renowned performers such as Zuko-SA and cultural Imbongi’s -honoured her with performances. Mazaleni addressed attendees with messages of encouragement and reaffirmed her commitment to advancing inclusive education and youth empowerment across the country.
Reflecting on the weekend, Mazaleni expressed profound gratitude to her family, community, her supporters and the Miss South AfricaOrganization. “This trip has been extraordinary. I felt supported emotionally, spiritually, and physically throughout the weekend. I am deeply thankful.”
As she embarks on her reign, Miss South Africa 2025, Qhawekazi Mazaleni, she returns to fulfil her Miss SA duties grounded in her roots and propelled by her mission: to empower, include, and inspire young people across South Africa.
SUPPLIED.
