The North West beauty semi-finalist has ushered in a new era of achievement and visibility for the LGBTQ+ community. 24-year-old Lehlogonolo Machaba was recently announced as part of 30 contestants who have been picked to move ahead to compete for the coveted title of Miss South Africa.
The renowned beauty pageant has allowed transgender women to compete since 2019. Women who choose to apply for the event do not have to disclose their trans identity.
Machaba shared the news of making it to the top 30 on Instagram: “I am proud to announce that I have OFFICIALLY made it to the #Top30 of #MissSA2021 thanks to all of you.