South African model Tshego Gaelae has made history as the winner of the 40th Mrs World pageant, held in Las Vegas, USA.
Tshego Gaelae’s victory marks a significant moment in the competition’s history, as she becomes the first Black woman to win the Mrs World title since its inception in 1984.
A Proud Moment for South Africa
Taking to Instagram, the elated beauty queen shared her gratitude, writing: “To God Be The Glory. Thank you so much for the love and support, I am beyond grateful and elated! My beautiful South Africa, the crown is coming Home.
In the competition, Sri Lanka’s Ishadi Amanda was named first runner-up, while Thailand’s Ploy Panperm secured the second runner-up position.
The Mrs South Africa organization, which supported Tshego Gaelae’s journey, also celebrated the win, stating: “From Soweto to Vegas and now the World! The Crown is Coming Home! Thank you to everyone who supported our Queen on her incredible journey. What an honor to have a South African queen as the 40th Anniversary Mrs World and first-ever Black Mrs World.
Intensified Pageant Rivalry with Nigeria
Gaelae’s triumph comes amid growing beauty pageant competition between South Africa and Nigeria.
In November 2024, Miss Universe Nigeria, Chidimma Adetshina, made history as the first West African to finish as the first runner-up at the Miss Universe 2024 competition in Mexico City.
Adetshina, who previously faced citizenship controversies due to her South African ties, was forced to withdraw from Miss South Africa, later winning Miss Universe Nigeria 2024.
With Gaelae’s latest victory, South Africa continues to cement its dominance in the global pageant scene