Celebrities
Melissa Nayimuli embraces her Miss Universe South Africa 2025 crown despite social media backlash
Beauty queen and influencer Melissa Nayimuli has spoken out following her crowning as Miss Universe South Africa 2025.
The announcement, made earlier this week, set social media abuzz as many shared mixed reactions to her selection as South Africa’s representative for the upcoming Miss Universe pageant in Thailand this November.
Nayimuli, who is no stranger to the pageant world, previously competed in the Miss South Africa competition in both 2020 and 2023, reaching the Top 5 on both occasions.
Her journey has now come full circle, as she takes on one of the most prestigious titles in global pageantry.
Taking to Instagram on Thursday, 23 October 2025, the radiant beauty queen shared heartfelt words about her new chapter.
“This moment is a full circle for me. I am embracing each and every step of this journey with trust in the universe, the love and support from my countrymen and women, faith in divine timing, and a message so important to share on a global platform — a message of unity, transformation, rebirth and resilience,” she expressed.
While Nayimuli’s crowning drew some criticism online, she appears focused on the positive side of her journey and the opportunity to represent South Africa on the international stage.
With her grace, experience, and message of hope, Melissa Nayimuli is ready to make her mark when the Miss Universe 2025 competition takes place on 21 November in Thailand.
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