Mia le Roux made history on Saturday 10 August when she became the first-ever differently-abled Miss SA, opening a big door for inclusivity in beauty pageants.

MIA LE ROUX IS THE FIRST-EVER DIFFERENTLY-ABLED MISS SA
Outgoing Miss SA (2023) Natasha Joubert passed down her crown to Mia le Roux at the end of the Miss SA finale held at the SunBet Arena, Times Square in Pretoria. This marked an era of change and inclusivity as Mia made history as the first woman, who is differently-abled that was crowned Miss SA.

Mia was diagnosed with hearing loss at the tender age of one. she was blessed with a cochlear implant by her community when she was just two years old. She explained that this was lifechanging and allowed her to hear, in her acceptance speech.

“As a little girl I never would have thought that someone like me could become Miss South Africa. It is extremely powerful what this could mean to other little girls – that even if you have something that makes you different, you still can achieve your dreams with determination and hard work,” she said in her acceptance speech.

“At the tender age of two, I was blessed by my community with the gift of a cochlear implant. Family, friends and strangers rallied to raise funds for this operation – a life-changing opportunity that allowed me to hear. It was also the start of a long journey to listen to sound and connect with the world through speech, a journey that also has taught me to never give up,” she continued.

“It took two years of speech therapy and continued repetition of words before I looked up to the sky one day and said my first four words: ‘Kyk daar, wit wolke – look there, white clouds,” she added.

Take a look at five things to know about Mia here.

MIA LE ROUX REPRESENTS CHANGE IN BEAUTY INDUSTRY
Mia’s win is a win for all women who felt they did not previously fit beauty pageant criteria. The Miss SA Organisation started paving the way for change and inclusivity over the last few years. In 2019, transgender women were allowed to compete in the pageant.

In May 2023, the Miss SA Organisation announced that women who are married, are mothers or have tattoos are allowed to compete at the pageant.

“This year we have pushed more boundaries than ever before and we are delighted to welcome all women who are ready to step onto our leadership platform and be the next ambassador for South Africa,” said Miss SA CEO Stephanie Weil.

“We, as women, are so many things; we can be business owners, leaders, innovators,
influencers, mothers, daughters, philanthropists, role models, ambassadors and queens all
at the same time. Showcasing the multi-diverse nature of all of this will be at the core of the
competition,” she continued.

“This is a game changer for South African women, and it’s a bonus for us as an organisation, as it means we have a much larger pool of women eligible to enter,” she added.

While inclusivity was there before Mia, she is the first woman to win the pageant that did not necessary meet the previously deemed standards of being Miss SA. Therefore, her win is a win for all the women who never thought they could be pageant titleholders as well.

So, Mia marks the first-real change in the pageant industry.

WHAT DID YOU THINK OF THIS YEAR’S PAGEANT?

The recent passing of veteran South African actress Connie Chiume has not only left a void in the entertainment industry but has also ignited a conversation about the exploitation of artists in a demanding profession. Chiume’s son, Tumi, delivered a poignant eulogy at her funeral on August 15, 2024, where he shed light on the harsh realities his mother faced as a performer, particularly in her later years, according to The South African.

Chiume, beloved for her roles in productions like Rhythm City, Gomora, Black Panther, Black Is King, and Blessers, passed away following a medical procedure at Garden City Hospital in Johannesburg. Her death has prompted her family to speak out about the challenges that many actors endure, particularly older women in the industry.

 

 

 

 

 

 

During the funeral service held at the Oasis of Life Family Church in Daveyton, Tumi expressed his anger and sadness over the grueling conditions his mother was subjected to. He revealed that at the age of 72, she was forced to work 16-hour shifts, a situation he deemed unacceptable. “Is it fair to work a 70-year-old 16 hours a day?” he questioned, highlighting the physical and emotional toll such demands can take on an individual.

#ConnieChiume’s son Tumi speaks out about the poor working conditions her mother endured in the industry.

He says at the age of 70 #ConnieChiume was required to work 16 hours a day. KH #KayaNews pic.twitter.com/8jMeqo8h34

— Kaya News (@KayaNews) August 15, 2024
Tumi’s emotional tribute emphasized the pain he witnessed as his mother fought for her place in an industry that often overlooks the contributions of its seasoned artists. He lamented that despite her hard work and dedication, she was not adequately rewarded for her talent and effort. “She was in pain because the industry was working her so hard,” he stated, urging those in attendance to recognize the plight of artists and to advocate for change.

His sister, Thando, echoed these sentiments, vowing to continue the fight for the rights of actors in honor of their mother. She expressed her commitment to pursuing the goals Connie had championed throughout her career, emphasizing the need for unity and advocacy within the entertainment community.

Connie Chiume had long been an outspoken advocate for better conditions for actors. She highlighted issues such as poor salaries, exploitation, and the lack of longevity for performers in the industry. In previous interviews, she lamented the absence of a union to represent artists, stating, “We don’t speak in one voice, and there is no transparency.” Her words resonate deeply in a field where many artists struggle to make ends meet, often without the support or protections that other professions might enjoy.

As we reflect on Connie Chiume’s legacy, it becomes clear that her story is not just one of personal triumphs and achievements but also a stark reminder of the systemic issues that plague the entertainment industry. Her son’s call to action during her funeral serves as a rallying cry for change, urging fellow artists and supporters to stand up for their rights and to advocate for a more equitable industry.

In this Women’s Month, Tumi’s heartfelt plea resonates even more strongly, reminding us all of the importance of solidarity and advocacy for those who have paved the way for future generations. As we celebrate the life of Connie Chiume, let us also commit to addressing the injustices that continue to affect artists and work towards a more just and supportive environment for all performers.

The actress Connie Chiume’s “American husband”, David Joseph Jr paid tribute to her in a video circulating on social media.

He says in the video: “Our love story started that started in the early 1980’s is one for the books. The bond that we share was always unique but strong. It didn’t matter where my wife was in the world, she knew that Joe would be there and like many of you, I’m broken.”

He added that he finds comfort in knowing that Chiume loved him and lived her life to the fullest.

“My sweet Connie, I want you to know that I want to be with you today but know that Joe will keep you, your joy and laugh forever in his heart.”

“I didn’t just lose a wife, I lost a friend and an angel,” he adds.

IOL reports that Chiume and Joseph got married in Louisiana in the United States on 26 August 2021.

It is believed Joseph did not attend Chiume’s memorial or funeral service at Oasis of Life Family Church in Daveyton, Ekurhuleni on Tuesday, 13 August and Thursday, 15 August.CONNIE CHIUME: FUNERAL SERVICE
The family of the actress, Connie Chiume confirmed she passed away on Tuesday, 6 August after a period of illness.

Her funeral was attended by her industry friends and co-stars such as Sello Maake KaNcube, Sanah Mchunu, Katlego Danke and many more.

Chiume is known for her TV roles on Rhythm City, Zone 14, Soul City, Mazinyo Dot Q and Gomora.

Nandi Madida, a renowned South African singer, actress, and television personality, recently shared the heartbreaking news of her grandmother’s passing. In a poignant and emotional message, Nandi paid tribute to the woman who played an instrumental role in shaping her life, expressing her deep sorrow and gratitude for the love and wisdom her grandmother imparted.

Taking to social media, Nandi revealed her grief to her fans and followers, offering them a glimpse into the pain she is experiencing during this difficult time. Her grandmother, whom she described as a pillar of strength and a source of immense wisdom, was deeply cherished not only by Nandi but by the entire family. Nandi’s heartfelt message reflected the profound bond she shared with her grandmother, reminiscing about the countless lessons and precious memories that will stay with her forever.

 

 

 

In her touching tribute, Nandi expressed her gratitude for the time she spent with her grandmother, emphasizing how invaluable those moments were. She highlighted the importance of family and the enduring legacy her grandmother leaves behind, which continues to influence her life even after her passing. Alongside her tribute, Nandi extended her thanks to her fans, friends, and supporters who have offered their prayers, comforting words, and encouragement during this time of mourning. These messages of support have provided her with some solace, helping her navigate through her grief.

Nandi’s emotional words resonated deeply with her audience, sparking an outpouring of condolences and shared experiences from her followers. Many of them expressed their own stories of loss, creating a sense of community and shared empathy in the face of grief. Through her announcement, Nandi not only honored her grandmother’s life but also reminded her followers of the importance of cherishing their loved ones and recognizing the profound impact they have on our lives.

As Nandi Madida continues to navigate this personal loss, she finds comfort in the love and support of her family, friends, and fans. Her tribute to her grandmother stands as a touching reflection of the immense love, respect, and admiration she holds for the woman who played such a crucial role in shaping the person she has become today.

Miss South Africa Mia Le Roux addresses Chidinma Asetshina’s experience.

 

Mia and Chidinma joined other models in contesting for the crown, but Chidinma withdrew after being bullied and with the revelation of the Home Affairs department about her mother’s fraud case.

Speaking to Newzroom Afrika, Mia Le Roux said Chidinma Adetshina deserved to be part of the pageant.

“It was extremely hard for us because each one of us personally knows and loves Chichi. We truly believe that she did not deserve it, as we know she’s phenomenal, powerful, and beautiful in her own right. She deserved her spot on Miss South Africa,” Mia said.

The Miss SA further preached unity, as her goal as the reigning queen is to foster inclusivity.

“I stand for unity. I do not stand for people being divided. So, I do think we can do better in that aspect to support and include one another. Because she was excluded, and that is not okay.”

Fashion designer Enhle Mbali dons in dress designed for late Connie Chiumeby Limpho Nonkonyane
PICTURE: INSTAGRAM
Fashion designer and actress Enhle Mbali-Mlotshwa wears the dress she designed for the late veteran actress Connie Chiume at the Basadi Music Awards.

South African entertainment industry mourns the death of the veteran actress who recently lost her life after suffering from a short illness, at Garden City Hospital in Johannesburg. Enhle Mbali wore the dress she designed for the actress in March.

 

 

 
Taking to Instagram, the Essie Apparel designer shared that she made the dress for Connie but after learning of her recent passing decided to wear the dress in honour of her.

She says, “This dress like many of my others has a story, gonna keep it short though. It was completed by the @essie_apparel team for Mama @conniechiume in March. We ended up going for something more simple to save this particular dress for a lifetime achievement award. Then I was to use it for something else as I was in love with this baby. After finding out about mama resting I decided to wear it to the @basadiinmusicawards_sa this past weekend as a reminder to myself of how fab mama was. And oh boy did I look fab. mama’s #EmpressEnhle I will miss her stories, but oksalayo we looked cute.”

Since debuting her fashion label, Essie Apparel at South Africa Fashion Week in 2020. Enhle has won her first international award for Best Designer Collection at the Fashion Community Week, in America.

Moms are truly a blessing. They deserve to be appreciated and showered with lots of love, gifts and birthday parties because we are where we are thanks to them. Dr Musa Mthombeni definitely agrees with this sentiment as he threw his mom a beautiful surprise 60th birthday party.

Taking to his Instagram with a not-surprising-at-all iconic caption (as he’s known for):

“It’s officially my mommy’s birthday after pulling off a spectacular surprise birthday party on Saturday! The birthday girl had no clue what was going on and thought that we were going to a Women’s Day event. We secretly invited her friends and family (People from the Eastern Cape who can’t keep secrets) who had to keep lying to her even on the day of the event. My mummy is officially 60 years old. It’s time to retire on a farm with thousands and thousands of chickens and two donkeys.”

“It’s the dancing for me,” Liesl Laurie-Mthombeni shared her highlight in the comments. In the post below, we see mom Mthombeni getting down, showing off her moves and the family having a blast. It was indeed a spectacular surprise birthday party.Instagram users took to the comment section commenting:

“Musa you are love personified. The way you love, we can see that it comes from the sources, mom and dad, one user applauded him.

“May the god lord continue to bless and protect your family. What I see here is love and peace, kindness and mercy. So beautiful and a well-deserved birthday to your mom,” another user said

Another user agreed and shared: “So much love in this family, you can tell. You did well Musa.”

While another said: “The fact that mommy can go low and dance and I would trip and fall. She is beautiful!”

South African music producer Chymamusique recently shared a funny moment online after trying to understand a message from fellow musician King Monada.

Chymamusique shared a screenshot of the conversation, highlighting a message from King Monada that left him scratching his head. King Monada wrote, “Yes it true warra…if they someone bad about talk then about bad you talk around when are you very painful.”

 

 
King Monada’s comments quickly became a hit, receiving 137 laughing reactions from fans on Chymamusique’s Facebook post.

Which Chymamusique jokingly admitted he struggled to make sense of. Accompanying the screenshot, Chymamusique captioned the post with a now-deleted comment, “This day can and coz wow. I even have a headache from trying to understand.”

Despite the confusion, it’s clear that the two musicians share a strong relationship, Chymamusique recently posted on Instagram that he and King Monada are in the studio together, working on a new beat.Fans quickly joined in on the fun, sharing their thoughts on King Monada’s unique way of expressing himself.

One user said, “Tell him to sing it, maybe you’ll understand.”

Another user said, “He nailed the intro and the conclusion- the rest ke(it’s) unspoken language that only those with spiritual connections will understand!”

Another added,” I tried to use my filter to get around it. Go padile(it failed) mara(but) I know one thing he was trying to articulate is the word badmouth.”

Another one added, “Literally very painful to read that text.”

As the Chiume family prepare to lay the veteran actress Connie Chiume to rest, her industry friends and family remember her as a humble person.

The announcement shocked many internet users when the Chiume family released a statement saying that Connie had passed away at Garden City Hospital in Johannesburg, after being hospitalised due to suffering a short illness.

Taking to Instagram, the family announced that dates for her memorial service and funeral are set to take place this week.As per reports by entertainment publication, ZiMoja, industry legends and her colleagues came together to honour her great work, where they shared moments of various encounters with her.

Speaking to the above-mentioned source, close friend, Rose Nozipho Mankazane said, “Sis Connie was humble, down to earth, loving warm and very caring,” adding that, “She treated all her neighbours the same way and was never classist or undermining. She never lived a complicated life. She never spoke about her acting career when we were together. She loved life and to celebrate life.”

Renowned thespian, Dr. John Kani who also featured in Marvel’s Black Panther alongside Connie said, “If this was Aretha Franklin’s funeral everyone would be here, BBC would be here, but it’s just Connie.”

While tributes continue to pour in on social media, South Africa’s Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie described the veteran actress as a beacon of strength, resilience and grace in a recently released statement.

So lehasa is going to always remind Pretty how he save her yet she was with another man? 😔 #SkeemSaam
Mrs Kgomo breaks down when she realizes it might truly be over. Level Café is on its last legs without Francois. Letetswe is pleasantly surprised by Charles’ changed attitude towards his invention.
Thursday 8 August 2024
Episode 29
A simple dare takes a dangerous turn when a teenage boy steps onto a raft. Under pressure from her captain, Melita agrees to something she doesn’t want to do. Francois finally makes his long-awaited return to Level Café.
Friday 9 August 2024
Episode 30

Two boys’ lives hang in the balance as intense drama unfolds in treacherous waters. Babeile jumps to dangerous conclusions and threatens deadly consequences.
Monday 12 August 2024
Episode 31
Incriminating evidence is found at the Maputla construction site. Melita fears things won’t work out after Mr Kgomo meets her kids. Lehasa and Moss gear up for the upcoming trial.
Tuesday 13 August 2024
Episode 32
A parent works hard to defend and cover up their son’s tracks. Petersen has a new trick up his sleeve to take Lehasa down. Melita and Mr Kgomo’s relationship takes a serious turn.
Wednesday 14 August 2024
Episode 33
The mystery of a teenage boy’s disappearance weighs heavily on his friends. Pretty does the unthinkable that threatens her career. Melita is stunned by a life-changing proposal from Mr Kgomo.
Thursday 15 August 2024
Episode 34
The police visit Turf High regarding a missing teenager. Lehasa’s past comes back to haunt him, while Kwaito’s future plans unsettle Lizzy.
Friday 16 August 2024
Episode 35
Two parents finally meet to address their shared secret. Lehasa fears betrayal from another acquaintance. Babeile is pressured to solve s case before a family member takes matters into their own hands.
Monday 19 August 2024
Episode 36
The chickens come home to roost when a cop shows up at Charles Kunutu’s door. Melita’s happy ending hits a big hurdle that requires double the effort. Lehasa and Phomolo contemplate taking care of Ntshaba.
Tuesday 20 August 2024
Episode 37
Tbose discovers a crucial clue that may lead to finding a missing boy. Lehasa’s first day in court proves more challenging than anticipated. Charles is shaken when he hears someone on radio appealing to the public to help her find her nephew.
Wednesday 21 August 2024
Episode 38
Tbose and Kwaito clash over whether or not to turn the evidence that might help the missing boy’s case to the police. Nkosi and his guards lie under oath about Lehasa’s actions on the day he killed Pretty’s kidnappers.
Thursday 22 August 2024
Episode 39
Babeile’s worst fears are confirmed when he gets the DNA results back. Lehasa’s arch nemesis takes the stand and buries him.
Friday 23 August 2024
Episode 40
A diver finds something at the dam, sending the community into a panic. Pretty faces a relentless cross-examination. Mosebjadi and Nora receive some good news.
Monday 26 August 2024
Episode 41
Lehasa digs his own grave when he takes the stand. Clement chooses to work with the enemy. Letetswe pushes Charles’ buttons and gets a hot slap.
Tuesday 27 August 2024
Episode 42
Tbose’s greed may lead to unintended consequences, putting Kwaito in a risky situation. A Grade 10 learner gets rid of the evidence that places him at a crime scene. Nora is on top of the world.
Wednesday 28 August 2024
Episode 43
Kwaito fumbles a big presentation while a new addition shakes up the Maputla family. Phomolo reads Lehasa for filth.
Thursday 29 August 2024
Episode 44
Tbose finds a creative way to convince Bra Boikie to reinstate the tender. Babeile is set on twisting the Commander’s arm about his investigation. As the verdict day for Lehasa’s trial looms, tensions run high among people.
Friday 30 August 2024
Episode 45
The verdict delivers devastating news for Pretty and Lehasa. Toby’s risky actions could leave him and his mother homeless.