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Miss SA Lalela Mswane even after Miss Universe win
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@MissSouthAfricaOfficial

‘I followed what felt right’: Lalela speaks after Miss Universe Top 3 win

‘I choose faith over fear’, Lalela Mswane said of her decision to compete in the Miss Universe pageant in Israel…

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Miss SA Lalela Mswane even after Miss Universe win
Image via Facebook
@MissSouthAfricaOfficial

Lalela Mswane has spoken out for the first time on social media since competing at the Miss Universe pageant on Sunday night.

The Miss SA placed as second runner-up in the beauty pageant which took place in Eilat, Israel.

And the 24-year-old used the opportunity to defend her trip to Israel, despite the backlash from human rights and pro-Palestine activists.

ALSO READ: ‘Trying hard not to be petty’: Anele congratulates Lalela amid backlash

‘I CHOSE FAITH OVER FEAR’

Lalela took to her Instagram account to share a motivational quote. She posted: “The most beautiful turn of events is when the obstacles that were meant to tear you down, end up strengthening you in ways you never could’ve imagined”

The LLB graduate – who aspires to one day practice international humanitarian law – also touched on why she chose to go ahead with trip to Israel

She continued: “I decided to choose faith over fear and follow what felt right and good to my soul. am filled with so much appreciation and gratitude for all the love and comfort I received in support of my pursuing something extremely important to me.

“Ngiyabonga South Africa. To my beloved family and friends, thank you for being unwavering in your love and support of me. My heart appreciates all of yours.”

ALSO READ: NGO demands minister apologise to Lalela Mswane: ‘It’s not too late’

Lalela also included a special shout-out to Miss Universe winner – India’s Harnaaz Sandhu.

She added: “To Miss Universe 2021; congratulations beautiful. May your year of reign be blessed and be everything you desire it to be and more”.

SHOULD SA APOLOGISE TO LALELA?

Following Lalela Mswane’s placement at Miss Universe on Sunday, many South Africans admitted on social media that the country “owes” the pageant winner an apology.

“South Africa owes Lalela a public apology”

“Twitter trolls and our government really owe this young lady an apology. Regardless of what we put her through as a country, she raised the flag up high”

Twitter

Others outright refused.

“She actually owes every South African against Apartheid regimes an apology, but she can keep it.

“Anyone who supports Apartheid will never be supported by me, apology for what?”