Mikhenso Lubisi (23) has recently been crowned Miss Bushbuckridge 2025 during a prestigious event at the Merupa Lodge in Acornhoek.

Lubisi, a third-year student at the University of Venda, said it still feels like a dream. Still studying for a BA degree in development studies, she grasps the additional responsibilities that come with the title.

“I vow to give back to the community, helping the old and young in every possible way and to continue to be an inspiration. Winning the title shows that no matter one’s background, you can achieve your dreams. I believe in equality, justice and female empowerment. If each woman uplifts one other, the world will be a better place,” she said.

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Lubisi believes that, with the right connections, she will able to touch and change lives through her organisation, ‘Unlocking Your Mind.’

Her current community project assists learners from grades eight to 12 by supplying stationery and school uniforms.

The event was a joyous celebration of Bushbuckridge’s beauty, cultural diversity and a rich tapestry of languages. Bushbuckridge Local Municipality’s executive mayor, Cllr Lydia Moroane, thanked everyone for their participation, as they all represented the municipality. She also said she hoped to see local beauties participating in other pageants.

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“I want you all to inspire young girls in our municipality; teaching them how to care for themselves and fight against teenage pregnancy. You must encourage them to prioritise education.

“The municipality is ready to work with the new queen. Be a good example to young women by proving you are a beauty with brains,” Moroane said.

She also congratulated the organisers, Zinkonji Communications, for ensuring the event was a success and thanked those who supported it. One of the organisers, Pearl Ndlovo, congratulated Lubisi on her win and thanked the outgoing Miss Bushbuckridge 2024, Mamello Malele, for the excellent work she did during her reign.

“I would like to thank all the sponsors for their support. All finalists are winners and made their mark, they will not be forgotten. They played a huge role in their respective communities while competing and should not stop now, just because they did not win,” Ndlovu said.

She added that the new Miss Bushbuckridge is expected to drive campaigns to provide sanitary products to the underprivileged youth, fight teenage pregnancy, promote culture and take care of needy community members.