Miss South Africa hopeful Ndiwanga Muravha has edged two steps closer to the national crown after advancing to the competition’s top 19.

The announcement on August 19, hosted live on the organisation’s YouTube page by media personality Minnie Dlamini, saw the top 24 narrowed down following an evaluation process by a judging panel including Miss South Africa 2020 Shudufhadzo Musida, entrepreneur Dr Aisha Pandor and Business Engage CEO Colleen Larsen.

The judging panel initially selected 18 contestants out of the top 24 to advance, and the 19th spot was reserved for the public’s choice, which Sanelisiwe Diko from the Eastern Cape secured.

Judges commend digital vision

Pandor said Muravha combines a strong value base with a vision to equip South African youth with skills to navigate a digital future. Musida commented on her intelligence, intentions and warmth, stating it was great listening to how she thinks. Larsen added that the energy she projects is infectious.

For the 22-year-old University of Mpumalanga (UMP) agricultural student and founder of the youth digital initiative Crimson Creative, reaching this milestone represents both a surreal victory and a deeply personal journey.

Muravha admitted that the wait leading up to the announcement was a nerve-racking experience.

“I was sitting at home feeling so nervous,” she said. “Then my best friend called to congratulate me. That is actually how I found out I had made it through to the next round.”

Reflecting on her progress so far, Muravha emphasised that her journey through the pageant has been about far more than just competing.

“Every step of this competition has been intentional and educational.”

She expressed deep gratitude to her supporters across Mpumalanga and beyond, thanking the community for rallying behind her, voting and believing in her vision to empower youth through digital skills and entrepreneurship.

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Focus turns to top 10 selection

As part of the top 19, Muravha’s advocacy will continue to be developed through Empower Youth Africa, the Miss South Africa Organisation’s flagship impact platform chaired by Dr Precious Moloi-Motsepe. The initiative is designed to nurture leadership, resilience and social impact among contestants well beyond the pageant stage.

She said she now faces one final hurdle – another elimination round before the top 10 finalists are revealed.

The community can continue supporting by following updates and voting via the official Miss South Africa app and website.