MDODA TO CO-HOST MISS SA 2021
WITH less than a month left until the Miss South Africa 2021 pageant, Anele Mdoda and Nico Panagio have been announced as this year’s finale hosts.
This year’s reigning beauty queen will be crowned on October 16, at the Grand Arena, GrandWest in Cape Town. It will see 10 of Mzansi’s surviving models battle it out for the coveted prize.
Mdoda returns as a host from judging the pageant in 2013 while Panagio returns for a second round.
About her move, Mdoda said it isn’t really about her but about the 10 contestants. “I am merely a vehicle that moves the night along with an insight of where the finalists’ minds should be and what the judges will be thinking, and I will be the one giving the audience at home the scoop.
“It’s going to be a beautiful evening – finding our new Miss South Africa and celebrating an extraordinary reign from Miss South Africa 2020, Shudufhadzo Musida, who has really raised the bar,” she added.
Mdoda also notes how changes in the pageant, dubbed as braver and younger, have created a platform where there is no standard for beauty, but it embraces all types of beauty.
“I used to get so annoyed when we were shown, for example, a Miss Venezuela and got told this was what international pageants were looking for, and I’d be like, yes … for them! The main currency now is authenticity.”
Panagio is excited to assume hosting duties alongside Mdoda.
“Anele epitomises celebrating life! She exudes passion and joy, and it’s always loads of fun engaging with her. I usually prefer working alone (I’m sure she does too!) unless it’s with someone like her.
“Co-hosting requires a different approach and can be great fun, if the person you work alongside loves having a great time on stage. I know that is something we both share so I’m really looking forward to it.”
He also sent a message to the 10 competing women, who will be sharing the stage with him. “As each of them will already be acutely aware, there are certain key elements that sets one apart.
“These are authenticity, sincerity, and the ability to stay true to yourself despite the immense pressure.
“Keep your roots deep and your head held high, then rise and rise!”
Nomsa Philiso, the director of Local Entertainment Channels at M-Net said: “We are excited to have both Anele Mdoda and Nico Panagio host this prestigious event. Mdoda and Panagio are both talented entertainers and it will be an evening of glitz, glam and beauty. Our viewers can expect to enjoy an unforgettable and entertaining event.”
Miss South Africa 2021 will take home a variety of prizes and sponsorships worth more than R3 million.
The Miss SA pageant will be screened live from 5pm on M-Net and Mzansi Magic, and will also be streamed for an international audience on MissSA.live.