Luyanda Zuma

"South Africa, I have poured my heart into this journey. Every step, every late night, every moment of doubt and triumph, all leading to this final moment on that stage"

"It took years of hard work, sweat and tears to rise from a place of zero confidence, from once hating my complexion, my height and my figure to standing tall and proud in my truth"

"When I was on-stage during the crowning moment I was thinking to myself that whoever gets this crown is so deserving of it. when you are in that moment you can just be at peace, and just let go and let God take over. Even when Qhawe and I were standing there, we even forgot that we had to turn on que because we were just so in our moment. I was thinking that the fact that I have even gotten this far is enough. Whatever happens now is all up to God"

"I don’t think people understand that you don’t necessarily need a crown to fulfill your duties. the Miss SA organisation is still going to hold my hand through and ensure that my advocacy does actually breath life into the people that I want to reach. It was such a rewarding moment for me when I got that position knowing that I’ll still be able to be within the proximity of working with the organisation and the queen as well"

"They were really amazing. I think the sisterhood that gets born in that system is so beautiful because if you are missing an earing, someone has got you. If you are missing this or that, someone is always there to help. How we were stepping into an new era and having to now hold each other hands in support and not necessarily look at each other as competition, is comforting"

"just a drop in the large ocean of my amazing supporters who fuel me every single day"

"Being sashed First Runner-Up at Miss South Africa is a moment I’ll cherish forever, not just for what it represents, but for what it means in God’s divine plan. Every message, every word of love and encouragement has touched my heart deeply"

"I am exactly where I’m meant to be, walking in purpose, grace, and gratitude"

"I am my ancestors’ wildest dream, standing tall because of the prayers, sacrifices, and strength that came before me. And for that, I am endlessly thankful"

"A girl from Alexandra to the Miss South Africa stage. This journey has truly been nothing short of grace, growth, and gratitude"

"This crown is not just mine, it belongs to every dreamer from humble beginnings, to every girl who thought she couldn’t, but did anyway. South Africa, thank you for trusting me with your hearts. The journey doesn’t end here; it’s only the beginning"