The crowning of Qhawekazi Mazaleni as Miss South Africa 2025 has unleashed a powerful wave of emotion, not just from the public, but most profoundly from her own family, whose journey is inextricably linked to this monumental achievement.

The reactions of her sister, Homba Mazaleni—a former Miss South Africa finalist herself—and her proud mother have captured the hearts of the nation, illustrating a victory built on years of shared dreams and sacrifices.

Qhawekazi Mazaleni, a 24-year-old speech therapist from the Eastern Cape, secured the prestigious title at the glittering finale in Pretoria, a moment that instantly validated the faith and effort of her closest relatives.

Her older sister, Homba, who was a Top 5 finalist in the 2023 Miss SA pageant, emerged as her most vocal and intensely proud cheerleader.

Homba’s reaction, shared on social media, reflected a shared family triumph rather than personal rivalry.

She expressed overwhelming pride and disbelief, stating, “I can’t even… I saw my sister, the love of my life, the girl I’m willing to go to war for, achieve the goal of our family.”

Her words painted a vivid picture of the deep, supportive bond between the sisters, emphasizing that Qhawekazi’s win was the culmination of a collective family effort spanning nearly 16 years of preparation and modeling strong values for their three daughters.

Homba continued to express her sleepless joy and pride: “I’m endlessly proud.

I can’t sleep.

It’s 4 minutes past 2.”

Her selfless support and visible happiness have garnered widespread praise from social media users, who celebrated their beautiful sisterly dynamic.

Meanwhile, Qhawekazi’s mother spoke with immense gratitude and optimism for her daughter’s future, echoing the family’s deep-seated belief in her potential.

Describing Qhawekazi as “goal oriented,” her mother expressed hope that her success would be boundless.

“I’m wishing all all everything that is good all the best for her.

She must be successful because she is somebody who is goal oriented, she must attain all the goals.”

The mother’s hopes transcended the pageant stage, wishing divine intervention for her daughter’s journey: “Everything that she wish she wish for, I wish God can open another territories for her.”

This family outpouring confirms that the Mazaleni household’s investment in Qhawekazi’s journey has been substantial, underscoring the sentiment that the crown truly came home.

Beyond the family circle, Mazaleni’s victory was widely celebrated by the public, though it was not without the typical online discourse and debate that accompanies such a high-profile competition.

Many commentators lauded her win, believing her dedication and consistency throughout the pageant made her the most deserving candidate.

“I am so happy for her.

Like honestly, no one deserved it more than her, you know,” noted one online observer.

Her approach was often praised for being authentic and action-oriented, distinguishing her from those perceived as merely reciting prepared answers.

“This is a girl who knows her story.

She is just not preaching whatever she’s saying, she is also doing.

Like her actions speaks louder than her words, you know.”

This perception of substance and genuine commitment to her platform—championing education and youth empowerment—bolstered public support for her reign.

The victory, however, sparked immediate controversy regarding the second-place runner-up, Luyanda Zuma.

A debate quickly erupted online, focusing on Zuma’s finale night attire, specifically her revealing dress, which some critics deemed inappropriate for the pageant.

One content creator, for instance, controversially stated they would not have chosen Zuma due to the revealing nature of her dress, claiming her “boobs were just out there and screaming like for attention,” and criticizing the excessive use of body oil.

This judgment on the aesthetics and perceived modesty of a contestant’s outfit highlights the often-subjective and sometimes puritanical scrutiny placed upon women in pageantry.

While some agreed with the critique about the oil application, many defended Zuma’s outfit, arguing that such debates distract from the intellect and presence of the contestants.

Regardless of the external noise, the focus remains squarely on Qhawekazi Mazaleni, whose name, meaning “heroine” or “queen” in isiXhosa, perfectly encapsulates her new role.

With her Master’s degree in Speech Pathology and a clear vision for inclusive education, she steps into her reign as a queen determined to make a tangible impact.

Her family’s tearful and proud reactions solidify the emotional foundation of her victory, providing a heartwarming narrative of triumph achieved not alone, but through the unwavering support and shared destiny of her loved ones.