Karabo Mareka Rises Above Circumstances to Become Miss South Africa 2025 2nd Runner-Up
Karabo Mareka Rises Above Circumstances to Become Miss South Africa 2025 2nd Runner-Up. Born and raised in the Township of Alexandra, Karabo Mareka has been determined to not let her background define her. She came into the competition as an underdog, and ended up among the Top 3!
Unlike many contestants, Karabo had no tertiary education. This is because after Matric, she couldn’t afford to further her studies. Instead of feeling sorry for herself, she quickly got a drivers’ license and embarked on a journey to become an Au pair. This saw Karabo travel all the way to America, where she started a new life. All the time, she worked on her personal brand, and grew her social media following. After many so her potential, they encouraged her to enter Miss South Africa pageant.
This year Karabo decided to take that leap of faith, and her audition tale was among the most liked. She then made it to Top 10. After popular vote from fans, Karabo automatically made it in the Top 5. After showing what she got, the judges found it fit to have Karabo in the Top 3. She then finished in the respectable position three with Luyanda Zuma and Qhawekazi Mazaleni scooping 2nd and 1st positions respectively.
“Woooo lona! A girl from Alexandra to the Miss South Africa stage. This journey has truly been nothing short of grace, growth, and gratitude. Standing here as your 2nd Princess is a reminder that no dream is too big, and no beginning is too small,” Karabo gushed in excitement.
She then gave encouragement to the youth out their to dream beyond their situations. Karabo also displayed a spirit of sisterhood, by congratulating Qhawe on her win.
“To every young person watching your circumstances do not define your destination. With faith, hard work, and belief in yourself, you can rewrite your story.
This crown is not just mine it belongs to every dreamer from humble beginnings, to every girl who thought she couldn’t, but did anyway. South Africa, thank you for trusting me with your hearts. The journey doesn’t end here it’s only the beginning.
To my new Queen Qhawe oh mntase you are so deserving! I wish you nothing but a beautiful reign! Congratulations to all ladies! 🥹💕🫶🏾,” she added.
