Online Reporter
Former Miss South Africa 2022 Shudufhadzo Musida has added another major achievement to her growing list of accolades after graduating from Columbia University in New York City.
Musida recently announced on Instagram that she had completed her Master of Public Administration degree at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA), where she focused on International Finance and Economic Policy.
The Limpopo-born model and mental health advocate reflected on her academic journey, sharing heartfelt memories about studying abroad and finding a sense of belonging far from home.
“My capstone field trip remains my favourite memory of my SIPA experience. We met remarkable clients, built something we were genuinely proud of, and did work that felt meaningful,” she wrote.
“But what I will carry with me the longest is the team. People so warm and so wonderful I would invite them to my wedding one day.
‘‘As an international student, loneliness can creep in quietly. This trip reminded me that community is not just possible, it is something you can find, even far from home.”
The former beauty queen, who balanced life between Johannesburg and New York during her studies, often used social media to document both the joys and challenges of adapting to life in the United States.
In one of her videos, titled, “You’re a 28-year-old who moved to NYC and the subway doesn’t make you anxious anymore”, Musida candidly opened up about navigating daily life in the bustling city.
She also took the opportunity to shut down speculation about her personal life after a social media user commented that she was “supposed to be getting married”.
Responding playfully, Musida replied: “I am?.”
Ahead of her graduation ceremony, the Witwatersrand University alumna shared a carousel of photographs capturing moments from her time at Columbia, from orientation week to completing her first year.
“Pens down, Incoming @columbia Grad. To God be all the glory,” she wrote.
“The last 12 frames from my first year of school hit different now. From the first week of orientation to the end of first year.”
Musida’s latest achievement has been celebrated by fans and followers, many praising her dedication to education, advocacy and personal growth while representing South Africa on the global stage.
Award-winning clinical psychologist Anele Siswana wrote: “We’re because of you. The world knows Africa produces the finest academic craft!”
Miss South Africa 2015 Liesl Laurie-Mthombeni commented: “Congratulations beautiful.”
Musida’s boyfriend and media personality Maps Maponyane filled her comments section with love.” – IOL
