CAPE TOWN - As Miss South Africa 2020 Shudufhadzo Musida left this weekend to participate in the Miss World competition in Puerto Rico, the Miss South Africa organisation is still silent on calls to withdraw from the Miss Universe pageant to be hosted in Israel.
Miss South Africa 2021, Lalela Mswane, is expected to participate in the 70th edition of Miss Universe, despite the government’s withdrawal of support. This is in light of the Israeli regime’s human rights violations and apartheid policies, the government said. Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Nathi Mthethwa said that following unsuccessful consultations, it had proved difficult to persuade the Miss SA pageant organisers to reconsider their decision to participate in the Miss Universe contest.
The SA organisers have said they are “not a political organisation”, and therefore would not heed calls for a boycott.
At the weekend, the Miss South Africa organisation, however, announced that Musida would be taking part in the 70th edition of the Miss World pageant, with the finale to be held on December 16 in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Toni-Ann Singh of Jamaica will crown her successor.
Musida – who relinquished her title earlier this year – will be representing South Africa at the Miss World pageant because the 2020 competition was postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The 25-year-old Musida, of Limpopo, will compete against contestants from 109 other countries.
Musida said: “I have put everything into my Miss World preparations. My Miss South Africa journey enabled me to share my story and now I want to connect and inspire people all over the world. That is such an important platform to me, because the essence of who I am is wanting to lead a life of service. Miss World’s cornerstone is ’Beauty With A Purpose’, which is what I stand for.
“So, I am excited to take what I focused on throughout my reign to an international audience. My goal has always been to advance mental health awareness globally,” she said.
Cape Town designer Warrick Gautier is responsible for Musida’s Designer of the World dress, and her finale gown.
“The Designer of the World dress has been inspired by the Miss South Africa crown ’Buhle’ and its refined African geometric details are carried through with crystal beadwork, creating a glamorous and sensual piece.
“The fitted silhouette in a cherry red crêpe serves to showcase Miss South Africa as a strong and confident woman. Attached is a silk-chiffon cape to show that women can be both strong and feminine. The beaded off-shoulder detail is inspired by ’Buhle’ to celebrate her country and the people she is representing," Gautier said.
The finale gown represents the rich glistening mineral resources South Africa has juxtaposed with the soft glowing African sunrise. It is a shimmering, sophisticated gown that dazzles and emphasises Shudu’s incredible beauty.”