Former Miss SA 2024 Top 9 finalist Chidimma Adetshina, who represented Nigeria at the Miss Universe pageant, was crowned the runner up on Sunday 17 November in Mexico City.

CHIDIMMA ADETSHINA CROWNED MISS UNIVERSE RUNNER-UP
Miss Nigeria Chidimma Adetshina was crowned the Miss Universe runner up on Sunday 17 November in Mexico City. Victoria Kjær Theilvig, who represented Denmark was crowned Miss Universe, making history as the first time Denmark took home the crown.

 

 

 
It’s been 61 years since a contestant from the country had placed in the top five of the competition. Miss Mexico María Fernanda Beltrán Figueroa is the second runner-up.

Chidimma made history as this is the first time Nigeria placed in the Top three of the international pageant. Taking to Instagram, she revealed her dreams had kept her afloat.

“Many wonder why I didn’t stop. Many asked, ‘Why not let it be for now? Your life might be at risk.’ Some questioned, ‘Why isn’t she giving up? Does she crave the clout?’ I sat back, overwhelmed with so many unanswered questions as life moved faster than I could process. But do you know what? My dreams have kept me afloat,” she wrote.

While her name may sound authentically South African – Sakhile Zibusiso Dube, or Miss Zimbabwe, has insisted she has no claims to Mzansi.

The model and fashion designer placed in the Top 30 at the Miss Universe pageant on Saturday, 16 November.

IS SAKHILE DUBE SOUTH AFRICAN?
While Sakhile Dube has spent some time working and travelling in South Africa, she has stressed that she is not from the country.

 

 

 

Speaking to Standard Style, she said: “I believe this debate was intended for fun, so let’s not get too serious about it!

“I take pride in being 100% Zimbabwean, born and raised.

Hinting at the social media commentary over her name, she continued: “More than anything, this should encourage us to come together as Africans and support one another, as our names signify our unity.

“Above all, we are Africans!”

While she may not have participated in the Miss Universe finale, South Africa’s Mia Le Roux remains an inspiration and role model to many, particularly the deaf community.

The South African National Deaf Association has particularly praised the country’s first profoundly deaf Miss SA for her work.

 

 

 

On the eve of the pageant – which took place in Mexico on Saturday, 16 November, Mia withdrew from the competition, citing “health concerns.” According to industry insiders, the 27-year-old suffered from a severe case of vertigo.

Miss Denmark, Victoria Kjær Theilvig was crowned Miss Universe during a glittering ceremony at the Arena CDMX in Mexico City.

MIA LE ROUX PRAISED BY SA DEAF ASSOCIATION
In an Instagram post, the organisation dedicated a touching message to Mia Le Roux.It shared: “The South African National Deaf Association, representing more than 4.4 million Deaf People in South Africa, is 💯% behind Mia Le Roux. We love you, Queen, and you’ve done our community proud.”Mia Le Roux – who was the first profoundly deaf person to compete at Miss Universe – has been vocal about advocating for inclusivity of all communities in society.

In September, the model shared an inspiring message to the youth at the South African Sign Language School Festival.

She shared, “Stop apologising for being different. Stop apologising for being something that society does not expect you to be. Earn trust within yourself and believe in yourself because you are capable of so much.She added, “I believe diversity is extremely important and very special, as we all bring something different and unique to the table. And when we all bring something to the table, we are so much stronger, and it really enriches South Africa as well. So, in that respect, I believe diversity is beautiful. It should be celebrated, and it’s so important that we embrace that.”

CHALLENGES AT MISS SA, MISS UNIVERSE
In various viral social media clips, Mia Le Roux hinted at experiencing challenges at the Miss Universe prelims in the run-up to the finale.

She said: “I’m supposed to be following music, which I can’t. When I tried to practise with all the girls, everyone was loud and talking, and I couldn’t follow. It was a lot, and I felt inadequate”.

In another clip, Mia spoke about experiencing “deaf fatigue”, after having to put in extra effort into concentrating on following instructions.

Margaret Gardiner was the first South African to be crowned Miss Universe, where is she now?

MIA LE ROUX DROPS OUT OF MISS UNIVERSE
The Miss Universe finale takes place on 17 November in Mexico City, Mexico and Mia le Roux was South Africa’s representative. However, the Miss SA Organisation announced that Mia has withdrawn from the pageant due to health concerns on the morning of Friday 15 November.

 

Take a look…

“It is with deep regret that we share the news that Mia le Roux, Miss South Africa 2024, has had to withdraw from the Miss Universe pageant due to health concerns,” read the statement.

“I am profoundly thankful for the unwavering support from South Africa during my time at Miss Universe. Making the decision has been incredibly challenging, knowing the dreams and hopes that have been placed upon me,” she said.

“However, I am deeply grateful to have the opportunity to focus on my health and recovery so that I may continue to serve my country with full strength,” she continued.Margaret Gardiner was the first-ever South African to be crowned Miss Universe in 1978. She was followed by Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters and Zozibini Tunzi followed in Margaret’s footsteps in 2017 and 2019 respectively. So, where is Margaret now?

WHERE IS MARGARET GARDINER NOW?
Margaret is currently based in Los Angeles. She is a renowned writer, celebrity, and journalist. The beauty queen is a familiar face on the red carpets of prestigious events such as the Golden Globes, Oscars, and numerous movie premieres, where she interviews A-list Hollywood stars.

Margaret released a fictional novel Damaged Beauty: Joey Superstar, which will debut in South Africa in March 2025, followed by releases in the USA and the UK. Following the news of Mia withdrawing, Margaret sent the reigning Miss SA love.

“Wishing @mialeroux a speedy recovery. So proud of you @official_misssa @missuniverse,” she wrote.

Margaret is also one of the Miss Universe 2024 judges, as per Hola!

Erin-Jane Miller – a former Popstars 101 star – has officially been named the new Mrs South Africa (Mrs SA).

The 42-year-old mom of two was crowned in a glittering ceremony on Friday, 15 November, at Emperors Palace in Johannesburg. She succeeds Tshego Gaelae as the new queen.

MEET THE NEW MRS SA
On Friday, South Africans were introduced to the Mrs SA 2025.

 
The blonde-haired beauty posted on the official Instagram account: “I am Erin-Jane Miller. I am 42 years old, and I live in Fourways Johannesburg. I am the CEO and Executive Producer at Recode Media.

She continued: “I have two amazing kids with my spouse, Bryan Miller, to whom I have been married for 17 years. In my spare time, l enjoy working out and spending time with my boys.

Erin added: “I have decided to elevate and become the most powerful version of myself.”If Mrs SA Erin-Jane Miller’s face looks familiar, that’s probably because you recognise her as Erin Samson from the music group Popstars’ 101.

The group was formed via a music talent search called Coca-Cola Popstars, which aired long before Idols, The Voice, and X-Factor.

In 2002, five singers, including Erin, were named as the winners of the competition. Other members included Pam Andrews, Ntumiseng Mokhasipe, Preston Sihlangu, and Kurt Herman,

The group decided to call themselves 101 after combining all their ages at the time together.

After releasing their smash hit, Who’s It Gonna Be, their success was short-lived, and they split very soon after that.Speaking to Good Hope FM, Erin-Jane Miller revealed that after her music career, she had a short stint on TV. She now is a businesswoman and volunteers in a charity organisation for development in underpriviledged schools.

While she admits she was “not a pageant girl,” Erin claims she decided to enter Mrs SA because the pageant offered “a platform for women to find their voice.”

She added, “My life is about making an impact, inspiring young girls, and making real change in communities.”

DID YOU WATCH THE MRS SA FINALE?

Margaret Gardiner continues to support the reigning Miss SA Mia le Roux after she withdrew from the Miss Universe competition.

MARGARET GARDINER: ‘OUR FIRST CONCERN IS THAT YOU’RE WELL’
The 2024 Miss Universe judge Margaret Gardiner tells TimesLIVE that she’s proud of Miss SA 2024 winner, Mia le Roux.

 

 

 
“Our main concern is that you heal quickly and know that destiny is waiting to take you in its wings to carry you to greater heights. We will be supporting you every step of the way. Feel better soon, our first concern is that you’re well. We send love, we are proud,” says Gardiner.

Gardiner who was South Africa’s first Miss Universe also admits that many South Africans were disappointed not to see Le Roux on stage.

“Many of your followers and South Africans would say they were disappointed not to see you on the stage. But what they mean is that they were invested in seeing you shine like we knew you would,” she adds.

The former Miss Universe also took to her Instagram on Friday, 14 November to wish Mia le Roux a speedy recovery.

“Wishing @mialeroux a speedy recovery. So proud of you @official_misssa @missuniverse,” she wrote.
MISS SA: ‘MIA LE ROUX WITHDRAWS’
Miss SA confirmed in a heartfelt announcement on Friday that Mia Le Roux, Miss SA 2024, has withdrawn from the Miss Universe competition in Mexico City due to health concerns.

The organisation said Le Roux has shown “incredible courage and grace throughout this difficult period”.

The SABC confirmed in a statement on Friday that the S3 channel will not broadcast this year’s Miss Universe contest.

S3’s Publicity Manager Caroline Phalakatshela reveals in a statement: “S3 regrets to inform viewers that due to Miss Universe South Africa, Mia Le Roux’s withdrawal from the 2024 Miss Universe Pageant, the channel will no longer broadcast this year’s Miss Universe contest on Sunday the 17th of November 2024.”

The channel also wished Miss Le Roux a speedy recovery and apologised to their audience.

RONNIE NYAKALE: LATEST POST
The legendary Generations: The Legacy star Ronnie Nyakae recently took to his TikTok account to clap back at social media users who criticised his new job as a Bolt driver.

Nyakale shared a video of himself sitting in his car while playing a song with the lyrics “abakhulume” (let them talk).

 

 

 
He captioned the video: “Hustlers nikuphi na! (hustlers where are you?) Nikuphi na my hustlers?”

The star recently trended on social media when a Generations fan revealed that she was recently driven by Nyakale as her Bolt driver.

X user @WhyUfikelate on Wednesday, 13 November shared Basetsana Khumo Innocentia’s status.

“My bolt driver was Cosmo from Generation, such a sweet soul. From Springs to KwathemaI felt like a celebrity,” wrote Basetsana Khumo Innocentia on social media.ACTOR LEAVES ‘GENERATIONS: THE LEGACY’
The former Yizo Yizo actor Ronnie Nyakale bid farewell to Generations: The Legacy on Wednesday, 28 August after a decade of playing Cosmo Diale.

A source from the show revealed to TshisaLIVE that Nyakale “wants to explore more of his talent as an actor with other production houses”.

Another source said the actor’s character wasn’t growing beyond his expectation. It was often the same thing from the character which triggered him to start looking for an exit plan and exercise other avenues in the acting industry.

Another source revealed to the publication that the storyline wasn’t aligning with the vision he had for his character.

“That often frustrated him to look for a better role to try and improvise the character towards his vision”

Congratulations are in order for TV presenter Masechaba Ndlovu and her husband Ntethelelo Faku, as they have gotten married.

MASECHABA ANNOUNCES SHE GOT MARRIED
The TV and radio personality ended her marriage to her ex-husband Vusi Ndlovu in 2018, and she has since found love again. The star shared the exciting news on Instagram, posting a series of pictures that offered her followers a sneak peek at their special day.

 

 

 

 

Masechaba Ndlovu has said goodbye to single life once again.
The couple appeared to have a traditional wedding, as they were dressed in traditional attires.

“Yesterday I married my best friend, now my HUSBAND. My chief strategist, my lover, my LIFE. Baba ka @lukhanyo_lwezizwe, ndiyakuthanda (I love you).

“As we embark on this journey together, may no weapon formed against us prosper. This was the happiest day of my life. I love you @official_ntethe, and I look forward to spending the rest of my life with you,” she wrote.

FANS CONGRATULATE HER
Fans and fellow celebrities congratulated the couple on their wedding.

@Vuyelwa_tshona wrote: “Congratulations Mkhaya! @official_ntethe 🙌🏾 Wishing you both a lifetime of love and happiness. May God bless your union abundantly”

@Naledimoleo wrote: “A beautiful ceremony Sis. So glad I could be there to witness your stunning union. Congratulations Ma Khumalo.”

@Makhumalomm wrote: “Congratulations to love, to God be the GLORY. Blessed Union.”

MASECHABA’S OPEN LETTER TO THEIR CHILD
In 2023, the star announced the arrival of their now 1-year-old boy, Lukhanyo Lesizwe. She penned an open letter to their baby boy and paid tribute to her husband for being an incredible father.

“I honestly don’t know how I would have coped if it weren’t for your dad. Steve Harvey says ”there are fathers and there are daddys”. Anyone can be a father, but you have a daddy. With the exception of the nurse who gave you your first bath at the hospital while your daddy proudly observed, your dad is the only person who has bathed you since you were born.

“It’s become your daddy-baby bonding time in the evenings. It gives me so much joy to just relax and watch him render such a powerful act of service to you. I’m in awe every single day,” she wrote.

Former Isibaya actress Asavela Mngqithi-Mqokiyana has called out her father, Manqoba Mngqithi, who is the head coach of Mamelodi Sundowns.

In April the actress announced that she got married, and last week she shared pictures of her new lavish home that she built with her husband.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Taking to social media on Friday morning, Asavela said whatever she has and is yet to achieve, should not be attributed to her being Manqoba Mngqithi’s daughter and his money, as she has worked hard for what she has.

She further stated that she has been through ups and downs without him, and people should keep their opinions to themselves.About
Known for her roles in Isibaya and Abomama, both South African TV shows. She has also worked as a director and a model. Her asavela__m Instagram account showcases her modeling work and her family life. She also provides a look at South African culture and food. Her content has helped her accrue 1.4 million followers.

Before Fame
She began her career in 2018.

Trivia
She studied editing at AFDA, The School for the Creative Economy, but left school due to financial struggles.

Family Life
She was born in South Africa. Her father, Manqoba Mngqithi, is a soccer coach. She married Thabo Mqokiyana. They welcomed their first child together in August 2023.

“To Nigeria: THANK YOU is not enough for all the support you’ve shown. You picked me up when I was at my lowest. I’ve never opened up much but I was ready to give up on my life but you became my strength. On days I never wanted to fight you gave me the strength to fight. I’m so grateful for each and every one for walking this journey with me” – Chidimma Adetshina Thanks Nigerians After Miss Universe 2024 Conclusion

Nigeria’s Chidimma Adetshina may not have bagged the Miss Universe title, but she does walk away with several lucrative prizes as the first runner-up.

The South African-born model placed second in the glitzy ceremony that took place in Mexico City on Saturday, 16 November. She also received the title of Miss Universe Africa and Oceania.

Meanwhile, Miss Denmark, Victoria Kjær Theilvig, took home the crown.

WHAT DOES CHIDIMMA WIN AS MISS UNIVERSE RUNNER-UP?
According to Nigerian journalist David Hundeyin, Chidimma Adetshina’s prizes are far more impressive than a “runner-up” title.

He tweeted: “Her package as Miss Universe first runner up includes $100,000 (R1,7 million) cash, a 1-year lease on a luxury apartment in New York, a $3m (R51 million) diamond-encrusted crown, and connections and contacts to kick off a successful career in modeling and showbiz”.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
In various interviews, Chidimma has made it known that she wants to venture into the entertainment industry as a television presenter and try her hand at reality TV, particularly Big Brother Nigeria.

She has also revealed that she has “no plans of returning” to South Africa. Ironically, the 23-year-old and her Mozambican mother are facing criminal charges relating to identity theft and fraud.