The judging panel for the 2022 edition of the Miss SA pageant has been announced.
It is an astounding group of personalities from all walks of life, industries and disciplines. An all-female selection committee comprising some of South Africa’s powerhouses.
South Africa’s sweetheart and former Miss South Africa and Miss World 2014 Rolene Strauss will be part of this year’s selection committee. She is currently chairperson of the non-profit organisation The Strauss Foundation.
Her advice to the Top 10 finalists? “Know your boundaries when it comes to handling criticism. Taking the right type of criticism to heart can truly help you grow and reach your full potential but others can steal your joy and authenticity and turn you into someone you are not. You are opening yourself up to all kinds of criticism during this journey (and beyond) so decide beforehand what your boundaries are.”
Another universal force, joining this year’s panel of judges is reigning Miss Universe Harnaaz Sandhu.
She shared her advice to the top 10 finalists “Be authentic! Use every minute and moment to showcase your true self, not only to the judges but to the people you are working with, those who are working on the production, your fans and the global audience who is watching! This is your time to shine and make the most out of this magical storyline you have chosen to be a part of.”
Another phenomenal woman on the panel is former South African Public Protector, Professor Thulisile Madonsela. She is an advocate and professor of law who has held a chair in social justice at Stellenbosch University since January 2018.
She said she is looking for a virtuous woman who walks tall in her covenant blessings. A woman on an urgent mission. A woman who is not confined to one particular role but demonstrates the capacity to live a life filled with purpose.
Coming back to the final round, is actress, entrepreneur, radio and TV personality Thando Thabethe.
She said she would be looking for a lady with a strong head on her shoulders, one who is aware of herself and her power and is ready to represent South Africa.
Former Miss South Africa 1990, Suzette van der Merwe will be bringing her years of experience and expertise to the judging panel this year. After her reign as Miss South Africa in 1990, she started a successful business career where she focuses on social development skills through her leadership in the foundation space.
She says she will be looking for that unique spark and qualities that will not only inspire the hearts of the people of our nation, but a winner who will represent us on the world stage.
A remarkable woman also joining this year’s selection committee is award-winning investigative television journalist Devi Sankaree Govender . She has spent the past 29 years in the media field and has worked for Carte Blanche for 18 years and gained a reputation for being fearless in highlighting corruption and crime.
She shared “Our country stands on the shoulders of women who refused to give up yet South Africa is still one of the most dangerous places to live, especially if you are a woman. Miss South Africa isn’t just an ambassador for our country but a voice for active citizenry – because change has to come.”
The final judge on this year’s panel is a woman who took up space and never looked back. Former Miss South Africa and Miss Universe 2019 Zozibini Tunzi is part of this year’s selection committee.
She said she would be looking for someone who has a unique voice and has a strong conviction in who they are and what they stand for. Usually these people know how to use their platform to contribute positively to humanity. They must also be sincere in their approach to the crown because this says a lot about who they will be as the reigning queen.
Catch the live broadcast on 13 August at 18:30 PM (SAST) Live from the SunBet Arena, Time Square South Africa.
The show will be broadcast live on Mnet and Mzansi Magic.
By Sinenzolo Mondi – Nduku
Additional info from Miss SA
