Online Reporter
WITH grace in her step and purpose in her heart, Miss World South Africa 2024 Zoalize Jansen van Rensburg made her final South African appearance before jetting off to India and it was nothing short of majestic.
Draped in a breathtaking emerald green gown adorned with delicate feathers, Van Rensburg floated down the stairs at The Shyre Mansion in Johannesburg, a venue that mirrored the elegance and gravitas of the moment.
With its stately façade, grand finishes and manicured gardens, The Shyre provided the perfect backdrop for a send-off fit for a queen.
“I’m excited, delighted, and I’m really thrilled. I can’t wait for the official departure and for the festival to commence,” she said with a calm joy that filled the room.
On Saturday, Van Rensburg departed for Hyderabad, India, where she will represent South Africa at the 72nd Miss World pageant on May 31 at the HITEX Exhibition Centre.
“We will be departing tomorrow and from there on out, we will be spending just a few days to settle in and then from there on out we will be kicking off on the seven,” she said.
During an interview, Van Rensburg opened up about her excitement not just for the glamour and competition, but for the cultural exchange, fast-track challenges, and sisterhood that define the Miss World experience.
“That’s one beautiful thing about the Miss World Festival, it’s women coming together celebrating a common cause, and that cause is purpose. At the end of the day, there is no woman that is better than the other. We all have a common goal of ensuring that this world becomes a better place.
“To be a part of that impact is a privilege,” she said.
Van Rensburg’s Beauty with a Purpose project is personal. Focused on empowering orphaned and vulnerable children, it aims to ensure that every child feels loved, safe, and supported in their dreams.
Miss World South Africa licence holder and president of the organisation Carol Bouwer spoke with heartfelt affection.
“Zoalize, there’s a lot one can say about you, but the one quality that stands out is how you make everyone feel like they are the most important person in the world. Whether it’s children, dignitaries or those in less privileged spaces, your warmth is your superpower,” said Bouwer, recounting shared memories with Van Rensburg of a recent trip to Botswana.
Van Rensburg’s deep-rooted pride in her nation radiated when she said she wants the world to know South Africa’s spirit of ubuntu.
“One thing I want the world to know about South Africa is our ubuntu spirit. We are a trailblazing nation with resilience, freedom, kindness and unity. We may not be where we want to be yet, but we are on the path — and I want to embody that spirit at Miss World,” she said. — Times.
