From Crops to Crowns: Rural Farmer Zaza Letsholo Makes Mrs South Africa 2025 Top 30
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It’s not every day that a crop and livestock farmer from a small Mpumalanga village finds herself in the national spotlight. But 43-year-old Zaza Letsholo is defying expectations, challenging stereotypes, and inspiring thousands across South Africa after making it into the Top 30 finalists for Mrs South Africa 2025.
Zaza, a proud farmer, philanthropist, and former SunBabe, comes from KwaMhlanga, a region often overlooked in mainstream beauty and leadership spaces. Now, she’s turning heads and changing minds — not just with her graceful presence, but with her story of self-belief, service, and transformation.
“This moment still feels surreal,” she told Daily Sun. “I was nervous about my English, public speaking, and whether I’d fit into this world — but I stepped in anyway. Now I’m Top 30. This is confirmation that women from rural areas can rise and lead.”
Zaza isn’t new to leadership — for over a decade, she’s run a successful farm and led community-based initiatives through her Zaza Mahlangu Foundation, which focuses on supporting vulnerable women and children. Her day-to-day life includes feeding animals, managing crops, and now, walking in heels as she prepares for the next round of the Mrs SA competition.
What makes Zaza’s journey even more powerful is that she entered the pageant not for glamor, but for growth. “This journey reignited my voice,” she said. “It taught me that where you come from doesn’t limit where you’re going. I’ve grown as a woman, a leader, and as someone unafraid to own her space.”
In line with her philanthropic values, Zaza is also leading a Women with Purpose seminar — a fundraising initiative for the South African Animal Cancer Association (Saaca), one of Mrs South Africa’s selected causes. “Animals have a unique way of healing, especially children who’ve experienced trauma,” she shared. “Supporting cancer research for animals is an act of love and compassion that reaches across all species.”
Her reason for joining Mrs SA goes far deeper than a title. “Winning the crown won’t just be a dream come true — it will be a platform to amplify my foundation, expand safe homes for children, and become a louder voice for rural women with big dreams but limited tools,” she said with conviction. “This is my time to shine and lift others as I rise.”
Zaza’s story is a clear reminder that beauty isn’t just about looks — it’s about purpose, passion, and the courage to redefine your path. From tending livestock to standing on stage in front of a nation, she’s showing that every woman — no matter her background — deserves to take up space, be seen, and lead with heart.
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#ZazaLetsholo #MrsSouthAfrica2025 #RuralLeadership #WomenWithPurpose #SouthAfricanHeroes #MpumalangaStories #WomenInFarming #DailySouthAfricanPulse
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