CROWNING MOMENT: Lalela Mswane, first South African and woman of color to win Miss Supranational


South Africa's Lalela Mswane has last night made history not only for winning her country's first Miss Supranational but also for becoming the first woman of color to win the coveted title.

"I’m simply at a loss for words," the newly crowned Miss Supranational 2022 said in a statement on social media the day after winning the glittering competition at Strzelecki Park Amphitheater in Nowy Sącz, Poland.

Lalela succeeded last year's titleholder, Chanique Rabe of Namibia, after beating 68 other women during the 13th edition of the Poland-based pageant.

"With this crown I carry the hopes, dreams of women who have come before me and those to come. It serves as affirmation that no dream is too small, no journey insurmountable to conquer. May it be a constant reminder to allow your feet to lead you to wherever it is your heart desires," the 25-year-old shared with a video of her emotional crowning moment.

Lalela hails from Richards Bay, in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa, and is a proud Zulu woman. She completed her secondary education at Pro Arte Alphen Park in Tshwane and studied ballet with the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) before graduating with a law degree from the University of Pretoria. 

Prior to winning her international title, she was crowned Miss South Africa 2021 and went on to represent her country at 70th Miss Universe where she finished as second runner-up.

Photo: Seweryn Cieślik / Miss Supranational

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