The Miss South Africa pageant has taken a new approach in the digital age by incorporating social media into the entry process. Entrants are required to submit an entry video on their social media accounts, using the Miss SA 2025 hashtag. While this may seem like a fair way to showcase talent, it raises questions about the impact of social media followers on the visibility of contestants.
In today’s digital landscape, social media algorithms and user behaviour play a significant role in determining which content gets prioritised. Entrants with a large number of followers are more likely to be seen by a wider audience. For example, former actress Nirvana Nokwe-Mseleku entered the competition with nearly 50,000 followers on TikTok, giving her a head start in terms of visibility.
Similarly, actress and broadcaster Mulisa Mudau, who has over 10,000 followers on Instagram and 65,000 followers on TikTok, has also garnered attention for her entry video. While this may seem like an advantage for contestants with a large following, Stephanie Weil, CEO of the Miss SA organisation, reassures that the number of followers does not influence the judging process.
Miss South Africa is a platform for ambitious young women to showcase their leadership skills and make a positive impact. Contestants like speech therapist and author Qhawe Mazaleni, who has a strong social media presence, are using the platform to advocate for important causes such as inclusive education and linguistic inclusion. Despite the influence of social media, the focus remains on selecting a role model who embodies strength, commitment, and resilience.
As entries for Miss SA 2025 continue to pour in, the organisation is overwhelmed by the response. With entries closing soon, the process of vetting and evaluating entrants will begin. The selection of qualifying contestants will be announced at a later date, showcasing a diverse range of talented individuals from various backgrounds.
In conclusion, while social media may play a role in increasing visibility for Miss SA contestants, ultimately, it is the qualities of leadership and impact that will determine the winner. The Miss South Africa pageant continues to evolve in the digital age, ensuring that the platform remains a beacon of inspiration for young women across the country.
