Klerksdorp Midweek, Klerksdorp - The search has started for the dynamic woman who will follow in the footsteps of the current Miss South Africa, Natasha Joubert, and become one of South Africa’s most recognisable faces and prominent ambassadors. Entries for Miss South Africa 2024 opened last week and will close on Wednesday May 8 at 18:00. South Africans will once again get to know the finalists through the fascinating Miss South Africa reality competition television show Crown Chasers, which will broadcast on SABC3.
The finalists competing in Crown Chasers will be placed in real life scenarios that include challenges based on the four pillars of Miss South Africa – duty, championship, empowerment and beauty. By the end of each episode, a winner will be chosen by the resident judging panel as well as a weekly celebrity guest judge. In addition, at the end of each episode, the judges will vote off one of the finalists, with the remaining contestants going through to participate in the live grand finale which will take place in August.
Joubert has some pertinent advice to those entering the Miss South Africa competition this year.
“As someone who has entered the pageant twice, the most important factor is to know yourself well, both emotionally and mentally. An entrant must know their strong suit and what their weaknesses are, and examine how they respond to pressure, negativity or confrontation. It is something they must be aware of and work at it - they can’t just focus on their wardrobe or advocacy. Self-awareness is critical,” she says.
“When a judge asks a personal question, are you in a place to explain your qualities, your values and your morals? It’s up to you to showcase yourself, so know your soul very well and deeply.”
Joubert recounts that simple questions such as “tell us about yourself” or even “what is your favourite colour” initially caught her off guard.
“Sometimes I would think that some of the questions were really simple but I soon realised the judges were gauging how well we knew ourselves. You have to examine how you behave and react when placed in a stressful situation or when you’re tired or when you travel a lot. At these times, do you know how you respond? Going into Miss South Africa you have to be completely transparent and open with yourself. It makes the process so much easier.”
So what are the qualities the reigning queen believes a Miss South Africa should possess?
“Definitely a strong and highly motivated work ethic. It is a demanding job with an often gruelling schedule. You have to know how to manage and navigate your time and to make sure you do everything to the best of your ability. I was a business owner before being crowned and it still challenged me and made me look at how I could do things better while bettering myself.
“However, other qualities such as being spontaneous also stand you in good stead. I am someone who always liked to plan something to the nth degree, but in this job there are always last minute changes so you have to learn to adapt. You also have to be kind and patient as you deal with so many people with different personalities. Have grace with people and be composed. You also must always be authentic and know how to have fun! You have to show your own personality whether on a TV show or interacting with the public.”
There has only been one change to this year’s rules and requirements. Finalists from the preceding year may not enter the following year. This means that a finalist from 2023 may only enter the competition again in 2025. Once again, married women and those with children will be allowed to enter. An applicant must be at least 20-years-old and must be under 30-years of age as of August 13, 2024. This means that an applicant can turn 30 within their year of reign (starting August 2024). There are also no height or weight specifications or requirements.
Those who wish to enter can simply do so on the Miss SA App (under the ENTER NOW page) or visit www.misssa.co.za, answer a number of questions, upload entry pictures (one head and shoulders and one full body image) and the link to their entry video.
