On January 30, 2025, South Africa’s Tshego Gaelae made history by being crowned the first Black Mrs. World at the 40th edition of the pageant in Las Vegas, USA.
This prestigious event celebrates married women and has been a significant platform since its inception in 1984.
MRS WORLD’S VICTORY
Gaelae’s victory not only marks a personal achievement but also a monumental moment for South Africa and the representation of Black women in beauty pageants, according to IOL.
Gaelae, a 33-year-old model and admitted attorney, expressed her gratitude on Instagram, stating, “To God Be The Glory.
Thank you so much for the love and support, I am beyond grateful and elated! My beautiful South Africa, the crown is coming Home.”
MRS WORLD IS FROM SOUTH AFRICA
Her words resonated deeply with many South Africans who celebrated her triumph as a source of national pride.
The competition was fierce, with Sri Lanka’s Ishadi Amanda taking the first runner-up position and Thailand’s Ploy Panperm securing the second runner-up.
Gaelae’s win comes at a time when South Africa is experiencing a resurgence in beauty pageant success.
The Mrs World pageant is particularly notable as it is the first international beauty contest exclusively for married women.
THE MRS SOUTH AFRICA SHOWS SUPPORT
In a show of support, the Mrs South Africa organisation praised Gaelae’s achievement on social media.
“From Soweto to Vegas and now the World, @mrsworldpageant The Crown is Coming Home! Thank you to everyone who supported our Queen on her incredible Journey.”
This sentiment reflects the collective joy and celebration within the nation.
Beyond her modelling career, Gaelae is dedicated to social causes, according to News Central.
ADVOCACY WORK
Tshego Gaelae works as a labour relations manager at a law firm and actively supports women and children affected by domestic violence through her NGO, We Are Our Children’s Keepers.
This initiative focuses on providing essential items like school shoes and uniforms to underprivileged children.
Mrs World’s commitment to social issues highlights her desire to make a positive impact beyond the glitz of pageantry.
Gaelae’s victory also comes amidst rising competition between South Africa and Nigeria in the beauty pageant arena.
MISS UNIVERSE 2024
In November 2024, Nigerian contestant Chidimma Adetshina made headlines. She became the first Nigerian and West African to finish as the first runner-up at Miss Universe 2024 in Mexico City.
This growing rivalry has sparked discussions about representation and success in international beauty competitions.
The significance of Tshego Gaelae’s win extends beyond personal achievement; it represents a shift towards greater inclusivity within beauty standards on global platforms.
As she wears her crown, she embodies hope for many aspiring models and women across Africa.
A CULTURAL MOMENT
Her journey serves as an inspiration that dreams can be achieved regardless of background or challenges faced, according to the Citizen.
As South Africans celebrate this historic win, Tshego Gaelae stands as a beacon of empowerment.
Her story encourages young women to pursue their passions while advocating for change in their communities.
With her blend of beauty, intelligence, and compassion, Gaelae not only brings home a crown but also uplifts an entire nation.
MRS WORLD AND THE POWER OF WOMEN
Tshego Gaelae’s crowning as Mrs World is not just a milestone for her but also a significant cultural moment for South Africa.
It highlights the importance of representation and the power of women to effect change in society.
The future looks bright for this remarkable woman as she embarks on her journey as Mrs World, inspiring many along the way.
HOW DO YOU THINK THIS ACHIEVEMENT WILL INFLUENCE FUTURE BEAUTY PAGEANTS IN SOUTH AFRICA?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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