An ecstatic Natasha Joubert from Tshwane has been crowned Miss South Africa 2023 at the spectacular pageant finale held at the SunBet Arena at Time Square in Pretoria on Sunday
night.
Joubert (26) is a BCom Marketing Management graduate and is the owner and fashion designer of Natalia Jefferys, a company she started when she was 19.
Runner-up was Johannesburg’s Bryoni Govender who was also the Motherkind fitness award winner.
An emotional and overwhelmed Joubert said she was truly humbled and grateful to win the title and to be the first to wear the glittering new Mowana (“Tree of Life”) crown from
Nungu Diamonds.
She received R1 million in cash in a prize and sponsorship package that includes the use of a
serviced apartment at the lavish Brookfield at Royal in Kensington – developed by Tricolt – for the year of her reign. She will also get to drive a Mercedes-Benz GLC as well as go on a trip to Paris sponsored by L’Oreal.
In her acceptance speech Joubert, a firm favourite among the crowd watching the pageant, said: “I am incredibly honoured and humbled to be crowned Miss South Africa 2023. As I step into this new role, I am filled with a sense of responsibility to make a positive difference in the world around me. I believe that success is not just about personal accomplishments, but about the opportunities we have to give back and uplift those around us. I will strive to be a source of inspiration and support for others, just as I have been supported on my journey now and before.
“This moment is the epitome of a full circle moment for me. A dream that started 11 years ago – and which three years ago did come to fruition after proudly representing my country on an international stage at Miss Universe at Miss Universe South Africa – has today become a reality. It took a lot of hard work, grit, self-confidence and support to keep my dream alive and to keep on believing in the beauty of second chances. It is a journey that I will forever be grateful for which moulded and shaped me into the woman I am today.
“I pledge to use this platform to advocate for the causes close to my heart and to be a source of inspiration for others. Entrepreneurship lies at the heart of innovation and economic growth. It is the driving force that propels nations forward, creating jobs, nurturing creativity, and fostering a spirit of resilience.
“I will also commit to cultivating an environment where entrepreneurial spirits can thrive. It pains me to know that more than half of South Africa’s youth lack the financial means to pursue their dreams. I was fortunate to receive a bursary that enabled me to continue my education, and I have been proactive in giving back. Not waiting for a crown on my head, I’ve been working to make a difference,” she revealed.
The winner of the special Crown Chaser of the season award, as voted for by the public, was Lungo Katete.
Says Stephanie Weil, CEO of the Miss South Africa Organisation: “Huge congratulations to Natasha, our newly crowned Miss South Africa 2023. A worthy winner, she embodies the Miss South Africa Organisation’s vision that if you can dream it you can achieve it and that just one person can make a big difference. May this year’s winner inspire a nation. We can’t wait to see what she achieves. And well done to runner-up Bryoni and the other five finalists who gave it their all on the evening. We truly had a strong group of women vying for the crown this year, a testament to the importance and value that the Miss South Africa title has come to stand for.”
The Miss South Africa 2023 pageant finale was broadcast live on SABC 3 and streamed for an international audience on the Miss South Africa app.
The all-female judging line-up comprised reigning Miss Universe, R’Bonney Nola Gabriel, actress author and entrepreneur Leandie du Randt, actress and L’Oréal Paris Sub-Saharan Ambassador, Thuso Mbedu, media icon and award-winning investigative television journalist, Devi Sankaree Govender and entrepreneur and former Miss South Africa, Jo-Ann Strauss.
Miss South Africa is presented by Weil Entertainment in association with Sun International. SABC3 is the official broadcast partner.
MISS SOUTH AFRICA 2023 – NATASHA JOUBERT’S FULL ACCEPTANCE SPEECH
Wow, what a year! This is a most special year and one I will never forget.
I am incredibly honoured and humbled to be crowned Miss South Africa 2023. This would not have been possible without the Miss South Africa Organisation. To the whole team, thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything you have done for me throughout the past three months. You have worked tirelessly to bring the opportunity of this pageant to life. Your dedication and commitment to empowering young individuals like me is truly commendable.
I would also like to thank every single sponsor of Miss South Africa. This amazing competition and the great standard it sets would not have been possible without you. We have all been so amazingly spoiled. You have taken care of all of us. Your belief in the Miss South Africa pageant has made a significant impact, and I am truly thankful for your partnership and being associated with each and every one of you.
I also want to extend my deepest appreciation to my fellow contestants. You have all showcased remarkable qualities and talents, and it has been an absolute privilege to share this journey with you.
As I step into this new role, I am filled with a sense of responsibility to make a positive difference in the world around me. I believe that success is not just about personal accomplishments, but about the opportunities we have to give back and uplift those around us.
I will strive to be a source of inspiration and support for others, just as I have been supported on my journey now and before.
This moment is the epitome of a full circle moment for me. A dream that started 11 years ago – and which three years ago did come to fruition after proudly representing my country on an international stage at Miss Universe – has today become a reality. It took a lot of hard work, grit, self-confidence and support to keep my dream alive and to keep on believing in the beauty of second chances. A journey that I will forever be grateful for which moulded and shaped me into the woman I am today.
I pledge to use this platform to advocate for the causes close to my heart and to be a source of inspiration for others. Entrepreneurship lies at the heart of innovation and economic growth. It is the driving force that propels nations forward, creating jobs, nurturing creativity, and fostering a spirit of resilience.
As I pledge to serve our country, I will also commit to cultivating an environment where entrepreneurial spirits can thrive. It pains me to know that more than half of South Africa’s youth lack the financial means to pursue their dreams. I was fortunate to receive a bursary that enabled me to continue my education, and I have been proactive in giving back. Not waiting for a crown on my head, I’ve been working to make a difference.
I am deeply aware of the struggles faced by many South Africans, and I believe that by joining forces, we can create opportunities and empower others. To accomplish this mission, we must ensure that bursary opportunities are accessible to all. Education should never be a privilege limited to the fortunate few. It is our duty to facilitate an inclusive society where financial constraints do not obstruct the aspirations of talented individuals. By establishing bursaries and scholarships, we lay the foundation for a fair and equitable society.
As I move forward as Miss South Africa 2023, I am devoted to being in service to my fellow South Africans. I will represent my country with pride, showcasing its beauty, diversity, and untapped potential. My ultimate goal is to inspire the younger generation, demonstrating that second chances do exist, and with determination and support, anyone can rise above their circumstances.
Once again, thank you for this tremendous honour. I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead and am eager to continue working hard, pushing boundaries, and making a difference.
Let us all remember that true beauty lies in kindness, compassion, and the ability to uplift one another. Let’s continue to support and uplift each other in every facet of our lives.
MISS SOUTH AFRICA 2023 – MEET THE SPONSORS SUPPORTING NATASHA JOUBERT THROUGHOUT HER REIGN
Natasha Joubert, who was crowned Miss South Africa 2023 at a glittering pageant finale on Sunday, has walked away with R1 million in cash from the Miss South Africa Organisation.
She will also get a trip to Paris sponsored by L’Oreal.
Joubert will get to drive in style in a brand-new Mercedes Benz GLC and will live in in a stunning three bedroom penthouse apartment at Brookfield at Royal, developed by Tricolt, with glorious views of the Johannesburg skyline and filled with homeware and accessories by Woolworths Home.
House of BNG – owned by award-winning television presenter, radio personality, actress, social media personality and host of the Miss South Africa 2023 pageant, Bonang Matheba – is her official bubbly sponsor and its BNG Brut and Brut Rosé Cap Classique bubbles will grace special events in the year ahead.
Joubert also gets an array of L’Oreal Paris beauty products which offers her a wide range of choices from skincare, make-up and hair care products, and she will wear the beautiful Mowana – courtesy of Nungu Diamonds, the custodians of the Miss South Africa Crown – at all official functions.
To ensure her mind stays ignited, Mofaya will keep her fired up, while Sun International will make certain she has a home away from home and look after her at their various hotels and resorts when she is travelling around the country on official duties.
Just like the finalists were throughout their journey to the crown, Miss South Africa 2023 will be supported by a host of other sponsors who will cater for her every need.
Official laptop partner, Asus will keep her connected; collagen partner Motherkind will ensure that she remains glowing; and oral hygiene partner, Dr Smile by Thinc Clinic, will care for her teeth.
Intuition South Africa, the razor brand devoted to making a difference in the very personal lives of women, is a flagship sponsor as is luggage sponsor Destinations by Frasers, which has committed to taking Miss South Africa everywhere she needs to go in style.
Clothing and accessory retail chain Forever New signed up as the Miss South Africa non-exclusive fashion sponsor and will help dress Joubert and her runner-up Bryoni Govender.
South Africa’s iconic multi-purpose store Woolworths – the exclusive food, fragrance, and body care sponsor for the Miss South Africa 2023 campaign – has also partnered with the organisation as a non-exclusive fashion sponsor.
World-famous footwear and bag brand, Steve Madden, returns as Miss South Africa’s preferred shoe partner and accessory store Lovisa is the exclusive costume jewellery sponsor.
To cater for her personal grooming, Miss South Africa 2023’s needs will be taken care of by a host of beauty partners, including:
● Hair specialists Veaudry Global, Mayne International, Duchess of Mane and Braids by Thandekile.
● Aesthetics and skin specialist Erika Davis Aesthetics will take care of her brows and eyelash extensions.
● Her nails will be looked after by Sparkle, Gelish & Morgan Taylor South Africa.
Value-in-kind sponsors:
● The Miss South Africa Organisation will rely on Vivo the official device partner ensuring effective communications.
● Also joining the list this year is non-exclusive fashion partner Zoët.
● Top Drawer Collection is the official sleepwear partner.
● Minkin Lashes is the official strip lash sponsor.
● Fast Forward Coaching will be Miss South Africa’s empowerment partner.
● The South African Depression and Anxiety Group, SADAG, will be on hand to take care of the women’s mental health.
Said Miss South Africa Organisation’s, Stephanie Weil: “Our sponsors are an integral part of the Miss South Africa family and we rely on them for their expertise in the areas in which they partner with us. This year we welcomed back old friends who have partnered with us over the years, and have added some new ones too. They will all make Miss South Africa’s reign dynamic!”
Go to:
● https://www.misssa.co.za
● Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissSouthAfricaOfficial
● Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/@Official_MissSA
● Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/@official_misssa
● Tik-Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@official_misssa
● YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/MissSouthAfricaOfficial
All photo credits: Yolanda van der Stoep
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