On Friday, 15 July 2022, history was made. Lalela Mswane became the first South African woman to win the title of Miss Supranational.

Channel24 previously reported that in 2020 the Miss South Africa Organisation franchised the Miss Supranational licence. This meant that although South Africa had been represented at the international beauty pageant before, the year marked the first time a representative would be sent under the official Miss South Africa Organisation banner.

Two years later, at the Strzelecki Park Amphitheatre in Nowy Sacz, Poland, reigning Miss South Africa Mswane represented SA against contestants from 69 other countries. She was one of the front-runners throughout the build-up to the finale and waved her country's flag high when Chanique Rabe of Namibia handed over the reins.

"I am overwhelmed; at the moment, it still feels surreal," said Mswane said after she was crowned. "I am deeply thankful to all the amazing people who have supported and uplifted me; I couldn't have done it without them… This title is not mine alone; it is South Africa's victory."

Click 'read more' for Lalela's historical journey.