Ayanda G Thabethe, a 27-year-old TV and content creator from Pietermaritzburg, is set to make a comeback to the pageantry world. Five years after being crowned runner-up for Miss South Africa 2022, Thabethe has been crowned the 2026 Miss Cosmo South Africa titleholder. In an interview, Thabethe reflected on her previous experience, revealing that she was hurt and taken aback when she didn't win the crown. However, she now views that moment as a turning point in her life, saying it was "destiny delayed, not destiny denied."
Thabethe's decision to return to pageantry was not taken lightly. She had previously stated that she was done with pageants, but the opportunity to compete in Miss Cosmo South Africa made her reconsider. The international beauty pageant, founded in Vietnam, will bring together over 90 contestants from around the world. The competition is set to begin on December 25 and conclude with the grand finale on January 16, 2027. Thabethe was drawn to the pageant's focus on finding a "purposeful leader" rather than just a beauty queen.
Thabethe's approach to pageantry is rooted in her cultural heritage. As a Zulu person, she comes from a long lineage of tradition and reverence for pageantry. She does not see herself as a disruptor of the pageant space but rather as someone who wants to show up authentically and represent Africa. If crowned, Thabethe would make history as the first African to take the Miss Cosmo International crown. Her participation in the pageant also challenges the scrutiny she has faced regarding her height.
Thabethe's online presence reveals two distinct sides to her personality. Her pageantry persona is more serious and aware of her audience, while her social media presence showcases her personality as an influencer and content creator. She insists that both sides are authentic expressions of who she is. Thabethe believes that her values and principles remain consistent across both platforms.
The pint-sized Thabethe has built a promising career in TV and content creation. She has made a name for herself on the small screen and has become a recognizable figure in South Africa. Thabethe's return to pageantry is seen as an opportunity for her to showcase her personality and values on a global stage.
Thabethe's participation in Miss Cosmo South Africa is also significant because of its association with South Africa. The pageant was hosted by Bonang Matheba last year, which brought it to Thabethe's attention. She is excited to work with a young pageant that is changing the way people see pageantry.
Thabethe's message to her younger self, who was hurt and disappointed after not winning the Miss South Africa crown, is one of encouragement and perseverance. She believes that her journey is far from over and that this is just the beginning of her path to success.
Key points
- Ayanda G Thabethe to compete in 2026 Miss Cosmo South Africa
- Thabethe was runner-up for Miss South Africa 2022
- Thabethe aims to showcase her personality and values on a global stage
