Sasha-Lee Laurel Olivier, 26, assumes the mantle as Miss South Africa from title holder, Zozibini Tunzi, who was crowned Miss Universe in December 2019.
“I am so happy for Zozi who deserves, in every way, to wear the Miss Universe sash. I wish her every success. I step into big shoes. I just want Zozi to know that I will do my best to fill them,” said Olivier.
She said: “Taking over the Miss South Africa title means that I am able to continue working to help women who, like me, have been sexually abused. It will be a top priority for me during my time as Miss South Africa.”
Her campaign #itsnotyourfault is aimed at making sure that people who, like her who has endured sexual assault, know that they are not to blame for their abuse and as a survivor of rape and sexual abuse, she designed the campaign to support, inspire and help girls, boys, women and men who have gone through the same ordeal.
“A very deep sense of shame accompanies rape and long term sexual abuse. Those who have suffered at the hands of the predators and perpetrators feel responsible for their own abuse, and are profoundly ashamed of what is happening, or has happened, to them.
“We need to change the commonly held perception regarding this – the shame does not lie with the victim at all,” she said.
She has joined forces with Penny Stein and the Angel Network to identify sexual abuse hot spots and provide Rape Comfort Kits.
Tunzi who is currently in New York, said she was delighted that Olivier would be taking over from her.
“I cannot think of anyone who is more suitable to be Miss South Africa. Sasha has it all: beauty, brains and, above all, a commitment to help others. I have no doubt that she will use her reign to help improve the lot of those in need, ” said Miss Universe.
Stephanie Weil Miss South Africa organisation CEO, said going forward all Miss South Africa duties and obligations to the sponsors will be fulfilled.
“We are happy to announce Sasha as the new Miss South Africa because she is fully committed and ready to begin her reign,” said Weil.
STAFF REPORTER
Sasha-Lee Olivier is crowned Miss SA
