Tshego Gaelae brings Mrs World crown home to Soweto

An enthusiastic crowd of Sowetans and local government officeholders gathered in the heart of Soweto to welcome home one of their own over the weekend. After her historic win in Las Vegas last month, Soweto-born Tshego Gaelae – the first Black woman to claim the coveted Mrs World crown in the pageant’s over 40-year history – returned to her childhood home with a grateful heart and newfound determination to uplift the community that raised her.

A year after being crowned Mrs South Africa in 2024, Gaelae stunned the global pageant world when she took to the stage in Las Vegas, following in the footsteps of Candice Abrahams – the only other South African to have worn the Mrs World crown, back in 2016.

Although she has visited her place of birth many times before, she described this occasion as a moment of a life-changing moment that underscored the importance of carrying the Mrs World title. “It was a full-circle moment, as I was raised in this place, by these people. Here, in Soweto, I’m reminded that no matter how far I go in life, my roots will always be my anchor. Bringing this crown home is my way of saying, ‘We did it together.’

“I understand now that I have a responsibility to inspire. Having met with the women and children of Soweto not long after receiving the Mrs World crown, I’ve realised there are those who live here who think they could never make it or achieve their dreams. But I have done exactly that, and I am exactly like every one of them, having grown up here with dreams not so different from theirs.”

A hero’s welcome

Driving through Soweto, Gaelae was met by spirited crowds waving homemade signs, singing celebratory songs, and cheering her win as a victory all South Africans, but especially for their community. The excitement only grew as the parade, accompanied by law enforcement vehicles and members of the City of Johannesburg municipality, made its way through the area’s iconic streets.

After the official welcome, she toured notable Soweto landmarks, including the Soweto Theatre, Eyethu Cultural and Heritage site, Hector Pieterson Museum, and the Nelson Mandela House Museum.

Addressing the crowds that gathered in the streets, Gaelae said, “To see my neighbours, my teachers, and the people who formed the backbone of my upbringing welcoming me back with open arms – there are no words to describe the depth of that feeling. Growing up here, I learned that we protect and nurture one another. That sense of community is what made me who I am today.

“Today has been truly amazing. At times, I couldn’t fight the tears. This place has literally raised me. There’s something indescribably powerful about walking down the same roads, surrounded by people who believed in me every step of the way, now holding a crown that I never imagined would be mine. This day has reminded me that a dream might only start as a seed, but with the right amount of love and determination, it can grow beyond our wildest imaginations.”

City Of Johannesburg Mayor Councillor Dada Morero joined Gaelae on the day, congratulating her on her victory and emphasising its historic importance. “As the City of Johannesburg, we are grateful for a child who hails from our city, from the heart of Soweto, and Rockville in particular. We are immensely proud that she has placed Johannesburg on the world stage. Gaelae's achievement is a celebration for our entire community."

Gaelae’s commitment to the people

Although the day was earmarked for celebrations, Gaelae was sure to bring attention to the needs of the community, explaining how her NPO, Our Children’s Keeper, will be a vehicle for her humanitarian efforts as Mrs World. “I firstly hope to expand our school uniform drive to ensure our children’s dignity is preserved across this great nation. I also plan to add more initiatives that address the needs of children who feel overlooked or under-resourced.”

Finally, she expressed gratitude to the Mrs South Africa organisation for giving her the skills and confidence to pursue the international crown. “Being part of Mrs South Africa was my first pageant experience, and it prepared me for everything that followed. Every workshop and mentorship session played a role in shaping the woman I am today.”