Miss SA Finalists Drop to Nine as Lebogang Msimanga Steps Down

The Miss South Africa organisation has announced that this year’s finale will feature only nine finalists instead of the usual top ten. This comes after KwaZulu-Natal contestant, Lebogang Msimanga, voluntarily withdrew from the competition.

In a statement, the organisation confirmed that Msimanga made the difficult decision to step back. Public relations specialist Nhlanhla Shezi explained during a media briefing that the contestant chose to prioritise her well-being.

The Miss South Africa Organisation is hosting a media briefing MC'd by radio presenter @FaithMangope, revealing all the new details and changes for the 2025 Miss SA pageant finale, set to be held on Saturday, 25 October.#MissSA2025 pic.twitter.com/ce0zU4MJ1y

— TRUELOVE Magazine (@TrueLoveMag) September 30, 2025

“After deep reflection, she (Msimanga) concluded that stepping back at this time would best serve her individual path and well-being. The organisation respects and honours her decision, recognising that true empowerment includes the freedom to make a choice aligned with one’s authentic self,” read the statement.

The Miss SA organisation also confirmed that her position would not be replaced. “In keeping with the spirit of this new era, which prioritises purpose, authenticity and meaningful participation, the competition will not be replacing her position,” they added.

Despite the withdrawal, the competition will continue with the remaining nine finalists. The organisation highlighted that each contestant was chosen for her “unique voice and vision” and that they remain committed to the Empower Youth Africa (EYA) mission and the responsibility of representing South Africa on a continental stage.

Along with this announcement, the Miss SA platform revealed exciting leadership changes. Two iconic women, Mrs Basetsana Kumalo and Peggy Sue Khumalo, will serve as Co-Chairs for 2025. Both former Miss South Africa titleholders and respected businesswomen, they will mentor the finalists and guide them through the organisation’s “New Era”.

Reflecting on the platform’s history and future, Basetsana Kumalo said:

“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 her perspective on the organisation’s role in addressing national and global issues:

“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.”