‘Zozibini Tunzi Made The People Of South Africa Very Proud!’

The 25-year-old woman from Sidwadweni village in Tsolo, Eastern Cape, was crowned in the early hours of Monday, in Atlanta, USA.

Brand SA Stakeholder manager, Toni Gumede, says they will support Tunzi because she has made the people of South Africa very proud.

“Now we will have a platform through Zozibini’s voice to be able to further impact the world positively thereby positioning South Africa as a country that is able and a country whose people have the strength and the capacity to be world leaders. 

So what is left for us as Brand South Africa and what this opportunity provides for us is to interact with her in a manner that empowers her further to be an even better nation brand ambassador.”

President Ramaphosa congratulates Miss Universe

President Cyril Ramaphosa has offered Miss Universe, Zozibini Tunzi, his warmest congratulations on her achievement of becoming Miss Universe – this on behalf of all South Africans.

Presidential Spokesperson, Khusela Diko says this is testimony to the fact that a young black African woman can reach the sky.

More on Tunzi’s hometown village

Meanwhile, young and old people from the Sidwadweni, some 42 km north-west of Mthahta, in Eastern Cape – with the population of about 7 800, spent the whole day celebrating the crowning of Tunzi.

Elderly people in the village say they prophesied her victory.

“We are very grateful that Zozibini has won Miss Universe. We did not sleep, we are very grateful for her and we want to see her soon,” says one villager.

“Around 4 .00 there was rain, raining and everyone saying guys ca you hear the rain Zozi is going to win, and we were all saying guys. She is going to win, the way she was answering questions,” adds another one.

‘Joy for family and villagers’

Zozibini’s uncle, Mbongeni Tunzi says the family is in shock, and excited. He says they can’t believe their own daughter is now Miss Universe.

“I thank my daughter Zozibini for bring in the crown back to South Africa, people are happy, they are dancing and chanting for her achievement, This is the big day for the family, the community, thank you, South Africa.”

The villagers also expressed their joy about Zozibni’s achievement.

“We are very grateful that Zozibini has won Miss Universe today in the morning, we did not sleep. We are very grateful for her and we want to see her soon.”

Another one says, “Around 4 .00 it was raining and everyone saying guys can you hear the rain Zozi is going to win. And we were all saying guys – she is going to win, the way she was answering questions. Yes, we are so excited. We cannot wait for her to come back home.”

Meanwhile, O.R. Tambo District Municipality spokesperson, Zimkhitha Macingwane says the municipality congratulates Zozibini for flying the South African colours high. Macingwane says preparations to welcome her back are underway.