NOXOLO MIYA
PALESA Matjekane, 35, from Bryanston, Johannesburg, was crowned Mrs South Africa 2023 this weekend at the Theatre of Marcellus in Emperors Palace.
Matjekane is a wife, mother of two and businesswoman.
Hlengiwe Sabela, 39, from Durban was the first runner-up, with Léchar Knezovich, 32, from Midrand the second runner-up.
The glamorous crowning event took place on Friday, with live judging taking place for the first time at the preliminary competition on November 10, 2022.
The show was hosted by award-winning South African TV presenter and singer-songwriter Katlego Maboe.
Every finalist looked breathtaking in their designer fashion. From glamorous evening wear to stunning swimwear, the audience were treated to a feast of fashion from Catstreet Boutique, Kaftans by Kaftan Queen, Werner Dey, Loka, Barreto Bridal Wear and New Romantics Couture.
This year’s selection committee was headed up by principal judge Matapa Maila and incldued Madelain Roscher, Tansey Coetzee, Dr Fezile Mkhize, Jacqueline Ferns, Storm Johnson, and Mankoana Nhlebela.
They expressed how incredible the finalists were this year, setting the standard for 2023.
Each of the finalists has been on a journey of self-development and growth since they began the journey. They have broken out of their shells and become not only voices for change in their communities but also women working to empower others beyond the Mrs SA platform.
It offers married women a chance to invest in life skills and business skills and build networks to leverage in the future. It is also a PR vehicle with influencers to showcase the virtues of real, relatable African women.
"Mrs South Africa started out as a professional challenge for me. Today, it is my vocation. While changing women, we have changed ourselves. While empowering others, we have become empowered, and while teaching others, we have learnt so much. I recently read a quote which resonated with me: I am here to support women until the day I die. And that is what we do at Mrs South Africa," said Joani Johnson, Mrs South Africa's chief executive.