Miss SA: I'm a township girl with big dreams

Ntandoyenkosi Kunene was crowned our new Miss South Africa in a glamorous ceremony on Saturday night in Carnival City, Johannesburg.

The 23-year-old qualified teacher walked away with the crown after months of gruelling preliminary judging. A firm favourite with the crowd, Ntando also won social media over after her answer in the question section of the competition. Many commented that she had the strongest answer, showing that she is quick to think on her feet and represent South Africa well.

In her acceptance speech, Ntando said that this was a dream come true. "As a little girl growing up in the township – modelling around the house and practicing my speech in front of the mirror – I had always hoped, prayed and believed that one day my name would be called as the new Miss South Africa. Words cannot begin to describe the joy in my heart. I am delighted because I have the opportunity to give back to my nation; to inspire little girls like myself to have big dreams; to be a beacon of hope to the hopeless and to encourage young women to work tirelessly towards their goals, dreams and ambitions."

The news of her win was immediately applauded by fans online, with numerous high-profile personalities voicing their approval.