Tshego Gaelae has been crowned Mrs World. Picture: Instagram
In a remarkable achievement that has resonated powerfully across the nation, 33-year-old Tshego Gaelae has made South Africa proud by being crowned Mrs World 2025.
This historic milestone marks her as the first black woman to clinch the title at the 40th Mrs World pageant, held in the glitzy atmosphere of Las Vegas, USA, igniting a sense of pride and celebration among South Africans.
Gaelae, who balances her roles as a devoted mother, wife, labour relations manager, and model, expressed her overwhelming joy in an emotional Instagram post shortly after her victory.
"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," she shared with her followers, encapsulating her elation and gratitude.
At the pageant, Sri Lanka’s Ishadi Amanda secured the title of first runner-up, while Thailand’s Ploy Panperm took home the second runner-up position.
However, the spotlight shone particularly bright on Gaelae, whose journey to the crown has been nothing short of inspiring.
The Mrs World pageant, established in 1984, stands as the first international beauty contest solely for married women, providing a platform for married contestants to showcase not just their beauty, but also their intellect and community outreach efforts.
Gaelae’s success is a testament to the ideals celebrated by the pageant, where diversity and empowerment take centre stage.
Supplementing the jubilations, the Mrs South Africa Organisation, which played a crucial role in supporting Gaelae’s remarkable journey, also expressed their pride through a statement: "From Soweto to Vegas and now the World, @mrsworldpageant The Crown is Coming Home! Thank you to everyone who supported our queen on her incredible Journey.
“Thank you to the @mrsworldpageant Organisation and Judges for everything you do, and for Seeing our Queen and her brilliance. What an honour to have a South African Queen as the 40th Anniversary Mrs World, and first ever Black Mrs World."
As the news of Gaelae's victory spreads, South Africans are celebrating her achievement, viewing it as a powerful reminder of resilience and the heights attainable through dedication and support.
As the crown returns home, it signifies not just personal triumph for Gaelae but also a significant leap for representation and recognition on a global stage.