Tshego Gaelae crowned Mrs World 2025 in Las Vegas, making history as the first Black winner of the prestigious beauty pageant for married women

[dropcap]S[/dropcap]outh African model Tshego Gaelae has been crowned the winner of the 40th Mrs World pageant, held in Las Vegas, USA.

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Her historic victory marks a significant milestone as she becomes the first Black woman to win the prestigious competition for married women.

Sri Lanka’s Ishadi Amanda was named the first runner-up, while Thailand’s Ploy Panperm secured the second runner-up position.

Celebrating her triumph, Gaelae took to Instagram to express her gratitude, writing, *“To God Be The Glory.

Thank you so much for the love and support, I am beyond grateful and elated! My beautiful South Africa, the crown is coming home.”*

The Mrs South Africa organisation also praised her achievement, posting, *“From Soweto to Vegas and now the World, the crown is coming home!

Thank you to everyone who supported our Queen on her incredible journey. What an honour to have a South African queen as the 40th Anniversary Mrs World and first-ever Black Mrs World.”*

Gaelae’s victory comes amidst an ongoing beauty pageant rivalry between South Africa and Nigeria.

In 2024, Miss Universe Nigeria, Chidimma Adetshina, made history as the first Nigerian and West African to finish as the first runner-up at the Miss Universe competition in Mexico City.

Adetshina, who previously held South African citizenship, withdrew from the Miss South Africa pageant after controversy over her nationality.

She later won Miss Universe Nigeria 2024, sparking discussions about the increasing competition between the two nations in global beauty contests.

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Gaelae’s win further cements South Africa’s dominance in international pageantry. Her journey, from Soweto to the global stage, serves as an inspiration to many, showcasing the power of perseverance and representation in the world of beauty and empowerment.