Friday night’s Mrs South Africa Grand Finale lit up the Theare of Marcellus at Emperors Palace as Verushka Singh claimed the crown, bringing a fitting end to a journey defined by bravery and the belief that every woman deserves her moment to rise. Singh is the first Indian South African woman to wear the Mrs South Africa crown.
Powered by headline sponsor iME, this year’s production was inspired by The Greatest Showman’s message that courage and individuality are worth celebrating. Under the theme “The Greatest Show Woman,” the Grand Finale highlighted the power of authenticity, turning the spotlight on real women with real stories.
Twenty-eight extraordinary women from across the country took to the stage for the event, marking the final chapter in the empowerment programme designed to help women grow their confidence and leadership abilities. Ranging from entrepreneurs and lawyers to mothers and community leaders, the diverse group of finalists each participated in the 10-month journey, joining personal and professional workshops, mentoring sessions, charitable projects, and fundraising events.
“From mothers of nine to cancer survivors and first-time entrepreneurs, each finalist has faced life’s highs and lows – and each is to be congratulated not only for what she has overcome, but also for what she has accomplished as part of the programme”, said Mrs South Africa CEO Joani Johnson.
“What makes our platform so powerful is that every woman who steps out onto the Mrs South Africa stage does so as her truest self. Our programme has never been about crowns or competition, but about reclaiming your voice and your passion, and showing up as a force for change in your community. The Class of 2025, and our new Queen Verushka, have shown us once again that when women rise, they lift others with them.”
Celebrating strength and connection
When Singh’s name was called, emotion rushed over her face as she took her first walk as Queen. She accepted the crown to a standing ovation, supported by First Princess Carika Bebb and Second Princess Talitha Oosthuizen, in a moment capturing the spirit of sisterhood that continues to define Mrs South Africa.
A chemical engineer and climate change strategist from Johannesburg, Singh hopes to raise awareness of climate change as the 2026 Mrs South Africa Queen.
“I’m absolutely thrilled to be the new Mrs South Africa. I’m very excited for the reign and the opportunities it brings, and I think it’s going to be a transformative year for me. I do want to promote sustainability, and that’s what I’m going to focus on,” she said.
As the new Mrs South Africa, Singh will embark on a new journey of advocacy and ambassadorship. Her reign includes representing South Africa at Mrs World, as well as partnerships with leading brands, community initiatives, and mentorship programmes aimed at uplifting women nationwide.
The newly crowned Queen also receives a comprehensive prize package, including a vehicle from Chery Krugersdorp, luxury travel experiences, and extensive media exposure to elevate her platform.
Fashion, flair, and female power
Principal Judge Matapa Maila, a business leader and women’s empowerment advocate, reflected on the evening’s meaning, saying, “Tonight, under the dazzling lights of ‘The Greatest Show Woman’, we gather to celebrate not only beauty, but bravery. The audacity to rise, and to redefine what it means to be a woman of impact in South Africa today. This evening stands as a tribute to the power of showing up wholeheartedly, even in times of uncertainty.”
The judging panel also featured notable figures such as Jacqueline Ferns, entrepreneur and former Mrs South Africa; Nivi Grogor, tech innovator and founder of iME; Dr Mpho Phalatse, medical doctor and former Executive Mayor of Johannesburg; and Werner Wessels, the internationally acclaimed pageant coach and creative director. The judging was supported by independent auditors PFK South Africa to ensure a fair and transparent process, with pageant week graciously hosted by Hotel Sky in Sandton.
Hosted by the ever-charismatic Katlego Maboe, the multi-award-winning South African television presenter, the audience were further treated to a showcase of proudly South African couture designs and high fashion from Von Ami Couture, Gerrit Pienaar, Tienie Boshoff, Dollhouse, and New Romantics. The 2025 Grand Finale was made possible by Mrs South Africa’s incredible sponsors: iME, PR Worx, Chery Krugersdorp, Skin Renewal, Lamelle, Hirsch’s Home store, Brentoni Eyewear, BTL Aesthetics, Slimz, PKF Octagon, Hotel Sky, iStyle, Hair Academy of South Africa, Alberton, Pont de Val, Action Coach, Collagen Lift Paris, Catrice, Vitalefemme, Busamed, Health Food Emporium with Nutriseed, Alvi Armani, Brand SA and Dotsure.
