Miss South Africa, Zozibini Tunzi, bid farewell yesterday afternoon to her supporters before boarding a flight bound for America and the Miss Universe Pageant.

Zozi, who will represent the country at the 8 December pageant in Atlanta, Georgia, beamed as she thanked those who had turned out to say goodbye to her.

She said her social media platforms had been inundated with good wishes.

“I am so grateful for the love that I have received since being crowned Miss South Africa. I’m especially delighted by the wonderful messages of encouragement, wishing me good luck as I embark on this most thrilling adventure. I’m super excited. I just hope that I do South Africa proud.”