Sitha Maliwa
The search for Miss South Africa 2025 is officially underway, and this year, the competition is offering new opportunities to a broader range of women. In a significant change, the age limit for entrants has been extended, allowing more women to pursue their dreams of becoming the next Miss South Africa.
Previously, applicants could only be 30 years old or younger during their year of reign. However, the new age limit allows women who are at least 20 years old and under 32 years old as of August 30, 2025, to enter. This means that contestants who turn 32 during their reign are now eligible to compete. This change opens the door for a wider range of applicants, allowing more women to be part of this prestigious journey, regardless of where they are in their lives.
The age limit extension is part of a larger push toward inclusivity in the competition. It reflects a recognition that women in their 30s, often seen as more experienced and confident, are equally deserving of a platform to lead, inspire, and create positive change. By removing previous restrictions, the Miss South Africa Organisation is embracing women of different ages, backgrounds, and experiences.
Current Miss South Africa, Mia le Roux, shared her thoughts on this important shift, noting that it’s a chance for more women to bring their unique perspectives and voices to the competition. “This journey is about personal growth, empowerment, and representing South Africa as a whole,” she said.
Le Roux also offered invaluable advice to potential entrants, urging them to embrace the journey with an open heart and mind.
“When entering Miss South Africa the most important thing you can do is to come in with an open heart and an open mind because this journey will really challenge you to explore who you are and what you stand for. And, if you embrace the journey fully, you will come out knowing yourself so much better, whether you take the crown or not,” she said.
Le Roux’s message was clear: entrants don’t need to be perfect or have all the answers. “You are allowed to be human,” she added, emphasising that the key is for participants to embrace their true selves, remain authentic, and maintain a willingness to learn along the way.
Women interested in entering can apply through the official Miss South Africa App or the website. The application process requires entrants to submit images (a headshot and a full-body image), a personal video via social media channels, and answer several questions. Entrants also have the chance to attend the Miss SA Masterclass, which provides expert advice to help prepare them for the journey ahead.
The competition promises to be more exciting than ever, with the Crown Chasers reality TV series returning for its fourth season. The series will offer a behind-the-scenes look at the contestants’ experiences and growth throughout the competition, providing an opportunity for viewers to connect with the finalists. The application window closes on Friday, April 11, 2025 – @NewsSA_Online