Mbali Khumalo was crowned the 2024 white star Miss Soweto in an electrifying event that was held at the Soweto Theatre on Saturday, November 30.
Khumalo sauntered across the stage, waving back to raucous applause as red, white and blue lights beamed down on her. Onthathile Mohuba shone as her First Princess, while the enchanting Boitunelo Molotsane claimed the title of Second Princess.
With her victory, the 20-year-old psychology student at the University of the Witwatersrand has stepped into the spotlight, becoming the 45th queen in the illustrious history of this iconic pageant. Mbali’s journey to the crown was fueled by the unwavering support of her mother, Sibongile Sibiya, a former Miss Soweto contestant herself. “I owe this moment to my mom,” expressed an overjoyed Mbali, whose vibrant spirit shone throughout the competition.
Khumalo impressed the judges with her charisma, intelligence, and outstanding communication skills, earning her the coveted Miss Soweto crown.
The vibrant energy in the theatre was exhilarating as the star-studded event unfolded, hosted by celebrated media personality and a former White Star Miss Soweto herself (2005), Lerato Kganyago who is no stranger to the pageant. In 2023, she co-hosted the pageant alongside TV presenter Thabiso Makhubela, reaffirming her deep connection to the brand.
The judging panel consisted of esteemed media personality Bridget Masinga, seasoned beauty editor Grace Mantjiu, and newcomer Masego Seemela, lifestyle writer for the Sowetan newspaper who added a dynamic flair to the proceedings.
Mokhele Makhothi, Marketing Manager at White Star, reflects on the pageant’s enduring legacy: “For 45 years, the Miss Soweto pageant has been a transformative force, empowering women and providing them with platforms to shine. This remarkable journey has seen countless young women rise to prominence, breaking barriers and becoming leaders in their communities. Our aim is to celebrate this legacy while fostering connections that enrich our diverse cultural identities.
The evening was further elevated by performances from multi-award winning songstress Simphiwe Dana and rising AmaPiano sensation Nia Pearl. The stunning Miss Soweto 2016, Nthabiseng Kgasi returned to host the glamorous red carpet, welcoming an array of notable attendees.
Other winners of the evening were: Aphiwe Mhlungu who won Miss Social Butterfly and Nontubeko Malambd who won Miss congeniality.
As Miss Soweto, she will represent the organization nationally, championing charitable causes and promoting national projects, while symbolizing the beauty, intelligence, and talent of women worldwide.
This year’s competition set records for participation and reinforced the organization’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, underscoring its evolving mission and presence in a changing world.
Thapelo Magola
Soweto Sunrise News
