Basetsana Kumalo and Peggy Sue Khumalo Take the Lead in Miss South Africa’s Bold New Era

The Miss South Africa Organisation has entered a bold new chapter, with two iconic women at the forefront. Former Miss South Africa queens and celebrated business leaders, Basetsana Kumalo and Peggy Sue Khumalo, have been appointed as the organisation’s new Co-Chairs for 2025. Their appointment marks the start of a transformative era driven by leadership, mentorship, and youth empowerment across the African continent.

Both women bring unmatched expertise and vision to the table. Beyond their crowns, Basetsana and Peggy Sue have built influential careers and become role models for generations of young women. As Co-Chairs, they will not only steer the organisation forward but also serve as mentors to the finalists, preparing them to rise as ambassadors for change.

Reflecting on this exciting new journey, Basetsana Kumalo shared:

“The 90s were a critical time in our history. It was a new era, underpinned by values of inclusivity and heritage. Young women became the face of hope. Today, Miss South Africa still plays this critical role, honouring the contributions of women in our society. It’s important that the platform continues to empower women to use their voice, to rise, and to become leaders who will become entrepreneurs, create jobs, and hold high office in the c-suite.”

Peggy Sue Khumalo added:

“When I look at this new Miss South Africa era, it’s rooted in the global conversations that have been happening in our country with the G20. As a country we are reflecting on whether we, as people, government, and business have done enough. What we need now is more activists in our country that will champion social change and social sustainability.”

On Tuesday, 30 September 2025, the organisation launched Empower Youth Africa (EYA), a socially conscious initiative that transforms the confidence of its contestants into a powerful force to address the pressing challenges facing young people across South Africa and the African continent.

This New Era is more than just a pageant refresh – it is a movement focused on real social impact. With EYA as its anchor, Miss South Africa is cementing its role as a platform that builds leaders, entrepreneurs, and activists who will make lasting change in society.