Shaka iLembe actress and model Luyanda Zuma has opened up about her widely discussed Miss South Africa 2025 entry video, a bold statement of her mission to drive social change and empowerment.
The video, which captivated audiences with its authenticity, sparked significant buzz. And Zuma is now sharing the intention behind its powerful visuals.
Her personal evolution
Reflecting on her evolution, Zuma contrasts her 2022 Miss SA entry with her 2025 return. “In 2022, I entered with hope and purpose, but I was still finding my voice. In 2025, I am a woman who knows her influence and responsibility.”
Zuma told Sunday World that her focus is not fame. She wants to leverage the Miss SA platform to amplify community voices and create meaningful impact.
Her entry video stood out for its deliberate choice of traditional beads, vibrant lighting, and retrospective clips that traced her journey from humble beginnings to a woman with a clear purpose.
“It was not about flash, it was about stepping into my truth. If I cannot claim that fully, I will do it with sincerity and heart.”
The video resonated widely, going viral on TikTok. It sparket conversations about authenticity and storytelling.
Praised for her social advocacy
Fans praised Zuma’s courage in addressing issues like gender-based violence and social inequality. Many were moved by her story’s emotional depth.
Some skeptics questioned if she was “chasing fame”. This prompted her to respond: “This is my life, how I live, and how I serve.”
As a model, student, and storyteller, Zuma is rewriting the narrative for women and children across South Africa.
Servant of the people
For Zuma, being a queen means serving others. Her advocacy focuses on child development, education, and women’s safety. She sees platforms like Miss SA as a way to elevate untold stories and drive change.
“It is not about the crown, it is about the impact. Why not use this stage to make a difference?”
Her approach positions her as a servant leader. It is rooted in empathy and authenticity, regardless of the pageant’s outcome.
