The glittering gowns and crown jewels. When we look at the glittering crowns of pageant life, it’s easy to lose sight of the folks who wear them. Natasha Joubert, the newly crowned Miss South Africa 2023, is one such diamond since she has made public her struggle with depression.
SunBet Arena’s Magnificent Finale
Natasha, who placed in the top three in 2020, was named Miss South Africa 2023 on a boisterous Sunday at the SunBet Arena at Time Square in Pretoria. Fans cheered as the event progressed, glitter fell from the sky, and a magical light filled the night.
It’s important to recognise the tremendous mental and emotional fortitude needed to stand on this platform, particularly in light of Natasha’s struggles, even while attention is focused on the winner’s sash and her upcoming responsibilities.
Bryoni Govender Is Waiting To Be Named Miss Universe
Our Miss South Africa runner-up, Bryoni Govender, will represent South Africa in the next Miss Universe competition in El Salvador, Central America.
The Real Story, From the Set
There was no shortcut to the top. This year, contestants for Miss South Africa had to contend with a new hoop: a reality show called “Crown Chasers.” A total of twelve women could become queens, but there are only seven thrones available. And while we had to say goodbye to five hopefuls, the remaining seven shone brightly as they fought for the first spot:
- Nande Mabala (our runner-up!)
- Anke Rothmann
- Bryoni Govender
- Homba Mazaleni
- Jordan van der Vyver
- Melissa Nayimuli
Bonang Matheba, a vivacious media personality, hosted the event and brought her signature charm to the proceedings.
More Than a Beauty Contest
The Miss South Africa platform challenges the common perception of pageants as shallow beauty contests. According to their website, they provide a forum for strong, independent young women in South Africa. The meaning, the motivation, and the results are just as important as the stroll or the wave.
Speaking of having an effect, Natasha’s openness about her despair is illustrative. It’s not simple to wear one’s emotions on one’s sleeve in her position. Natasha, in her understated power, demonstrates that it’s acceptable to talk about your struggles, even when you’re the queen of a country and the role model for young women everywhere.
Natasha Joubert, with her recent candid revelations about depression, gave us a glimpse into the not-so-sparkly side of her life, a chapter that not everyone has had the privilege to read.
Stepping Onto The Global Stage
When Natasha first stepped into the realm of pageantry, the pressure was immense. Representing your country on the international stage like Miss Universe isn’t just about the ramp walk; it’s about holding the dreams and aspirations of millions in your stride. The weight of the crown is not just physical but emotional and psychological too.
Rumours around town and whispers in the corridor hinted at Natasha’s grappling with the pressure, especially with eyes from all corners of the globe scrutinizing her every move. The question wasn’t just about winning or losing. It was about being enough, about belonging, about rising to the enormous expectations set before her.
Post Miss Universe
Post the glitzy event of Miss Universe, Natasha faced both acclaim and criticism. For every fan she won, there were unsparing critiques and unwarranted opinions, a common accompaniment in the life of public figures. Yet, every comment, every glare, every critique added another layer to her psyche.
Do you recall the incident during a press conference post-Miss Universe when a journalist ignorantly remarked on her weight gain? Natasha, with grace, responded about the importance of mental well-being over superficial standards of beauty. It was a defining moment for her, which spoke volumes about her mental fortitude.
The Road to Miss SA 2023
One might think that after the Miss Universe chapter, Natasha might take a step back, perhaps take a breather. But she had other plans. Her eyes were set on the Miss SA crown.
This was not just a comeback. This was a statement. Natasha’s candidness about her struggles was a beacon for many young South Africans who looked up to her. She wasn’t just a beauty queen; she became an embodiment of resilience, a symbol of the human spirit’s indomitable nature.
Picture a young lady in Bloemfontein listening to Natasha and being encouraged and comforted by her story. Or a young man in Durban who found the strength to open up about his struggles with mental illness. These are the potential consequences of Natasha’s admission.
While crowns, sashes, and reality television programs all play a part in the magnificent tapestry of the Miss South Africa 2023 pageant, it is the elements of vulnerability, courage, and interpersonal relationships that Natasha Joubert exemplifies that truly make it a masterpiece. The entire country is watching as she begins her reign, and not just because she is stunningly beautiful and graceful. They find her relatable because she is so authentic.
