Mazaleni, who is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree focused on supporting children with autism, charmed both the audience and the judges with her eloquence, confidence, and heartfelt passion for social change.

As her name was announced, she broke into tears of joy while waving to an ecstatic crowd. She received the coveted crown from outgoing queen Mia le Roux, Miss South Africa 2024, whose reign had been extended by two months to allow a smooth handover.

Standing beside Mazaleni on the podium were First Runner-Up Luyanda Zuma, 23, from Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu-Natal, and Second Runner-Up Karabo Mareka, 27, from Alexandra in Johannesburg.

Mazaleni impressed a distinguished panel of judges including former Miss South Africa titleholders Dr. Tamryn Green Nxumalo (2018) and Ndavi Nokeri (2022), actress Cindy Mahlangu, award-winning journalist Heidi Giokos, and branding expert Dr. Thebeetsile Ikalafeng.

During the question and answer segment, she spoke powerfully about youth empowerment, saying:

“The best tool we can give young people is the confidence to start with what they have. Opportunities may not always come easily, but even minimal resources can be transformed into impact within your community.”

On migration challenges, she added:

“Using the Miss South Africa platform, I hope to unlock honest and meaningful conversations that promote good governance, collective responsibility, and sustainable resource management.”

Mazaleni also addressed concerns about unemployment, highlighting the root of the issue:

“When 81 percent of our fourth graders cannot read and understand what they read, it means our youth are left behind. As Miss South Africa, my mission is to advocate for inclusive and quality education.”

Her victory comes with an impressive prize package valued at over 3 million South African Rand. She received a brand-new Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupé and will live in a luxurious three-bedroom apartment throughout her reign.

The glamorous event was hosted by media personalities Nomalanga Shozi and Pamela Mtanga, while Miss South Africa 2023 Natasha Vermaak and Mister Supranational 2024 Dr. Fezile Mkhize took charge of the red carpet festivities.

The star-studded evening featured electric performances from Ciza with his hit “Isaka (6am),” along with Lordkez and Langa Mavuso. Demi Lee, More Bucie, Karen Zoid, and Xolly Mncwango delivered a special collaborative performance with students from a local music academy.

South Africa’s beloved superstar, Makhadzi, closed the show with an explosive performance that left the crowd cheering long after the curtains fell.