International Miss South Africa crowns queens in Midrand
Pageant director Zinhle Thupana said International Miss South Africa celebrates sisterhood among contenders, while addressing pivotal mental health issues.
Young and old pageant princesses were crowned when the International Miss South Africa (IMSA) finale event was held at Vodaworld in Midrand on September 27.
The event was hosted by professional MC and voiceover artist Mokoena Moloto and judged by award winning TV and film producer, screenwriter, and actress Lulu Hela, relationship and personal development coach Chelsea Da Gama, Mr South Africa and a success manager for a leading-tech and IT agency Ntando Lurwengu, brand and image architect Troy Molaiwa, civil engineering and food services entrepreneur Mpho Raophala, and Mrs South Africa 1st runner-up, Mrs SA Gobe top 20, and life coach Noeline Rajbally.
IMSA is an organisation dedicated to empowering young women through personal development, education, and community engagement, with a focus on environmental sustainability and leadership.
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Zinhle Thupana, IMSA director, said they provide a platform for young women to shine and make a positive impact on the world. Thupana said the platform, launched in 2023, celebrates the multifaceted brilliance of young women by empowering, educating, and elevating them.
“This isn’t just a beauty pageant; it’s a transformative journey that celebrates intelligence, compassion, and community.
Our programme focuses on holistic development, empowering youth to become confident and influential leaders. From public speaking to environmental stewardship, IMSA provides the tools and support young ladies need to succeed.”
She said, leading to the finale, the week was full of fun, including building life time sisterhood and ensuring every girl child is celebrated in their uniqueness.
Thupana said they emphasised self-care, mental health, and environmental protection, and, by addressing these crucial issues, they aim to create a supportive community where young women can thrive.
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“I am thrilled to share that the 2025 International Miss SA finals were a resounding success. This year’s event was not just about competition; it was a celebration of connection, fun, and sisterhood among young girls.”
She thanked everyone who made the event possible, vowing that, together, they will continue to empower and uplift future leaders.
These are the crowned queens in the various categories
• Princess: Ages 4–6
Winner: Likhanye Mgobhozi from KZN
1st runner up: Alunamda Mpopo
2nd runner up: Silindile Moila
• Jr pre-teen: Ages 7–9
Winner: Siyamthanda Khumalo from Gauteng
1st runner up: Tian Van Rensburg
2nd runner up: Khanyolwethu Qeja
• Pre-teen: Ages 10–12
Winner: Afeni Sambo from Mpumalanga
1st runner up: Esihle Mangwana
2nd runner up: Songo Ndinga
• Jr teen: Ages 13–15
Winner: Aminathi Phandle from Eastern Cape
1st runner up: Zowie Mfeka
2nd runner up: Phophi Mosupye
• Teen: Ages 16–19
Winner: Zoe-Kay Van Der Merwe from Gauteng
1st runner up: Matshidiso Sekgobela
2nd runner up: Thuto Modisane
• Miss: Ages 20–25
Winner: Refilwe Malatji from Limpopo
1st runner up: Reratiloe Sekoto
2nd runner up: Kamogelo Radebe
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