Zozibini’s successor to be announced in May
Miss Universe delays caused by Covid pandemic
Miss Universe Zozibini Tunzi’s successor will be announced on May 16 after a yearand-half delay caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Organisers have confirmed that the 69th instalment of the beauty pageant will be staged live in Hollywood, Florida, in the US. Tunzi was crowned in Atlanta, Georgia, in December 2019.
“It’s always so exciting for me to watch the show and it is finally here,” Tunzi wrote on Instagram. I’m so excited for every contestant’s journey and I wish them all the best of luck.”
As previously announced, Miss SA’s second runner-up, Natasha Joubert will represent the country at Miss Universe, while reigning Miss SA Shudufhadzo Musia will compete at Miss World.
Joubert has recently launched her Miss Universe social initiative called #DestinyDesigned. The project aims to empower local fashion designers through Joubert’s devotion to entrepreneurship and design.
“I am passionate about entrepreneurship; I started my own company in 2016 as circumstances placed me in a position where I needed to become self-sufficient,” Joubert said. I was also modelling and I started making my own garments as I couldn’t afford to buy an extensive wardrobe.”
Joubert and her mother are the owners of couture fashion house Natalia Jefferys.
“Young girls started to admire my handmade garments and asked if I could start making outfits for them as well, and Natalia Jefferys was born,” Joubert said.
The #DestinyDesigned will select 10 fashion designers that have submitted information on how their businesses have been impacted by Covid-19.
The 10 entrants will design two looks each and have them modelled by former Miss South Africa titleholders and finalists in a virtual fundraiser fashion show scheduled to take place on April 10. All proceeds for the items auctioned off will go to the respective designers.
“I now want to help other designers on their journey. #DestinyDesigned aims to empower fellow South African designers through showcasing their fashion talent in a virtual space while using the Miss Universe South Africa platform,” Joubert said.
Stephanie Weil, CEO of the Miss SA organisation, added: “The Miss South Africa Organisation is delighted to be able to showcase our rich design talent on a worldwide platform while also helping South African design talent on their own entrepreneurial journey. It is imperative now, more than ever, for us to support local fashion designers.”