Miss South Africa Lalela Mswane has gotten over the Israel Miss Universe debacle in which she ruffled feathers in high places when she insisted on participating in the pageant.
Now that the brouhaha over her trip has died down the 24-year-old ballerina and Bachelor of Law graduate is heading home for a “homecoming ceremony”.
The recently crowned Miss SA and Miss Universe second runner-up will celebrate her wins with her community in a series of homecoming activities from Friday to Sunday.
Lalela is from KwaSokhulu in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal.
“I’m truly excited to be returning home after the immense support I’ve received during my reign and build-up to Miss SA and Miss Universe competition,” said Lalela.
She said this was particularly because “we haven’t had the crown in KwaZulu-Natal since 2008, so it just makes it that much more special.
“And for little girls in KwaZulu-Natal to know that if I can do it, so can they.”
Lalela was crowned Miss South Africa in October 2021 in Cape Town.
As the reigning Miss South Africa 2021, Lalela participated in the 70th Miss Universe pageant held this past December, where she emerged as a second runner-up.
Mayor Ntuli said: “This is proof that [even as an] African child your dreams are valid. Thank you for inspiring all the girls of King Cetshwayo District.”
The mayor added: “Her win will serve as an inspiration for other girls who aspire to reach greatness. Her surroundings and circumstances did not determine her final destination. She had to work hard in order for her dreams to be fulfilled.”
The mayor said the Lalela’s crowning as Miss South Africa 2021 had “shone a spotlight” in KwaZulu- Natal and inspired the whole province to believe in its youth.
“So, with the homecoming event to take place this weekend, more young girls can hopefully be inspired to believe in themselves,” said Ntuli.
On Friday, Lalela will arrive at a welcoming ceremony at KSIA, with King Cetshwayo District Mayor A.T Ntuli.
Miss SA will also be a guest at the class of 21 Matric Awards at KCDM(RCB) and Mfulawozi.
On Saturday, will travel to the Royal House to visit King Misizulu ka Zwelithini.
The final destination will be her birthplace, KwaSokhulu, where she will attend an event at KwaSokhulu Sports Ground.
Lalela will round off her homecoming visit at the KwaMswane residence.
Good Men Foundation CEO Simangaye Xaba said: “We are also grateful for the support that we have received from the King Cetshwayo District Municipality and all local municipalities within the district.
“We are looking forward to the impact Miss South Africa will bring to the community of her hometown over the three days she will spend with them.”
