WeeklySA_AdminDAZZLING: From seating mishaps to show-stopping performances, the pageantry proved that not even chaos can dim Soweto’s sparkle…
By Lihle Candince Malinga
It was a night of glamour. Excitement filled the Soweto Theatre, the venue for the Miss Soweto 2025 pageant, but soon the evening gave way to hiccups. Most notably the seating chaos that left many guests feeling more like contestants in a survival challenge than spectators at a beauty pageant.
Soweto had turned out in full force on 28 November, as the community gathered at the theatre to witness the crowning of the 46th Miss Soweto, proudly sponsored by White Star.
Supporters arrived ready to cheer, only to be told to vacate their seats and stand around in confusion. At one point, the crowd resembled headless chickens, wandering in search of somewhere—anywhere—to sit.
Eventually, guests were directed upstairs, where elderly attendees bravely tackled the steep staircase. The chairs awaiting them looked borrowed from a school hall, and the cramped conditions left many gasping for breath and nursing leg cramps before the show even began.
Scheduled for 6pm, the event only kicked off at 8:30 pm—a classic case of “South African time.” By then, tensions were rising as VIPs were ushered downstairs while general ticket holders were pushed upstairs, with some refusing to give up their hard-won seats.
YFM presenter Nia Brown and co-host Thulz kept the audience entertained throughout. While they delivered a solid performance, many expected the wardrobe changes usually seen at pageants of this scale—yet none came.
Once the show finally got underway, the pageant delivered the glamour everyone had come for. The judging panel featured television personality Bridget Masinga, entertainment journalist Masego Seemela, and renowned make-up artist Bongi Mlotshwa.
Among the standout finalists were Octavia Matshidiso Mashaba, a 23-year-old orphan from Phiri, and Lindiwe Nkana, also 23, from Diepkloof, who used her platform to highlight the urgent need to address gender-based violence.
Miss Soweto 2024, Mbali Khumalo, returned to reflect on her year with a heartfelt message: “Miss Soweto has taught me that a crown means nothing without a community behind it.”
Soulful singer Azana provided the evening’s musical entertainment, lifting spirits despite the cramped seating that left the audience waving only their hands in rhythm. The whole affair felt like a seated aerobics class disguised as a concert.
Despite the logistical missteps, the contestants shone brightly, reminding everyone why Miss Soweto remains a beloved community tradition. White Star may need to rethink its seating plan, but the pride Soweto holds for its queens remains unshaken.
In the end, the crown went to the radiant 22-year-old Lungile Siyaphi, whose poise and presence stole the audience’s hearts. Her victory reminded everyone that, despite the cramped seats, marathon staircases and delays, Miss Soweto remains a celebration of resilience, beauty and community spirit.
The night may have tested our patience, but Lungile’s triumph ensured we left Soweto Theatre with smiles—and perhaps a few leg cramps—but also with pride in Soweto’s shining star.
