Sasha-Lee Olivier assumes Miss SA title
IT’S official. Sasha-Lee Olivier has taken over from Zozibini Tunzi to be the new Miss South Africa.
Olivier, 26, assumed the mantle from Tunzi who was crowned Miss Universe in December.
She said she was thrilled to wear the Miss South Africa crown.
“I am so happy for Zozi who deserves, in every way, to wear the Miss Universe sash. I wish her every success. I step into big shoes. I just want Zozi to know that I will do my best to fill them,” she said.
Speaking from New York, Tunzi said she was delighted that Olivier would be taking over from her.
“I cannot think of anyone who is more suitable to be Miss South Africa. Sasha has it all: beauty, brains and, above all, a commitment to help others. I have no doubt that she will use her reign to help improve the lives of those in need,” Tunzi said.
As a survivor of rape and sexual abuse, Olivier’s personal campaign is designed to support, inspire and help girls, boys, women and men who, like her, have survived sexual abuse.
She was initially not believed when she told adults she had been repeatedly raped.
Olivier said she chose #ItsNotYourFault because “a very deep sense of shame accompanies rape and long-term sexual abuse”.
“Those who have suffered at the hands of the predators and perpetrators feel responsible for their own abuse, and are profoundly ashamed of what is happening, or has happened, to them. We need to change the commonly held perception regarding this – the shame does not lie with the victim at all,” Olivier said.
Miss South Africa Organisation chief executive Stephanie Weil said Olivier would, going forward, assume all Miss South Africa duties, as well as fulfilling her obligations to the sponsors.
“We are happy to announce Sasha as the new Miss South Africa because she is fully committed and ready to begin her reign.”