The fashion world is evolving, proving daily that authenticity and self-expression are the best style. South African Model Tshego Gaelae has won the Mrs World 2025 pageant, and, wait for it, she’s the first black woman to grab this crown! In the 40 long years of the program’s existence, since 1984, a black woman has finally won.
The prestigious event in Las Vegas, USA, saw fierce competition among contestants worldwide. Among the standout finalists were Ishadi Amanda from Sri Lanka, who claimed the first runner-up position, and Ploy Panperm from Thailand, the second runner-up. 33-year-old Tshego Gaelae, who’s also an entrepreneur, attorney, mom, and wife, graced the stage with elegance, winning for the night.
Upon being crowned Mrs World 2025, an emotional Tshego dedicated her victory to South Africa and the entire African continent, speaking on the importance of representation.
“It has taken a village to put me together. To God be the glory. Every little girl who looks like me, has hair like mine and skin like mine, you are deserving of your dreams. This is evidence,” she said during her victory speech.
Tshego has climbed the ladder from Soweto to winning the Mrs South Africa crown in 2024 and now to the top of the global stage of Mrs World 2025. Earlier in 2016, Candice Abraham had won the Mrs World pageant as the first South African. Gaelae is the second South African but the very first black woman. Her historic win makes a big mark for all black women, redefining beauty standards that favour light skin.
As the reigning Mrs World 2025, Tshego will embark on a year-long journey promoting women’s empowerment, diversity in beauty standards, and charitable causes. Her reign is expected to inspire young Black women worldwide and reshape how beauty is perceived globally.