KaNyamazane’s very own Bajabulise Thela has officially taken flight to represent South Africa at the upcoming 75th Miss Universe pageant in Puerto Rico.
The model, philanthropist, and qualified flight attendant set off from OR Tambo International Airport on November 6, carrying the pride of Mpumalanga and the entire nation on her shoulders.
The competition starts on November 11, and the grand finale is scheduled for November 24.
Thela earned the right to represent Mzansi after capturing the two-in-one crown of Miss African Beauty Universe South Africa 2026 on July 18.
Beyond her social initiatives, Thela is amplifying youth voices through her philanthropic book project, ‘100 Dreams to the Universe’, curated in collaboration with SN Global Impact.
Rather than an autobiography, the book serves as an inspirational platform compiling the real-world stories and ambitions of 100 young girls from underprivileged and marginalised backgrounds across South Africa.
The project – launched in October – promotes a core message: a child’s location or socioeconomic status should never limit the scale of their success.
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On the day of her departure, November 6, an emotional Thela penned a heartfelt message of gratitude on Instagram, thanking her family, supporters, and home province.
“Sikhatsi sifikile Mzansi! This black Swati girl is off to fetch her dreams,” she wrote. “Last night in our prayer meeting I could not help but break down in tears because I can’t believe this is me. My parents. Oh Nkosi. The sacrifices and love. My community people of KaNyamazane, my family and friends, and all who believe in this dream with me. Ngiyabonga. Maphupho a fezeka. I leave South African soil grounded and ready to take on this journey in Puerto Rico. South Africa you have carried me and now I carry you with me. To Miss Universe we go.”
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Bongekile Khumalo
www.citizen.co.za
