Who is Miss SA now? Miss South Africa Natasha Joubert is delighted with the overwhelming response to the first phase of her advocacy campaign, the Natasha Joubert Collective. The reigning Miss South Africa launched a partnership late last year with her alma mater, Boston City… Miss South Africa 2023, Natasha Joubert is engaged. The 26-year-old Pretoria-born beauty queen was surprised by her partner of 8 years Enrico Vermaak on a yacht in Cape Town. Natasha shared with her friends and family years ago that her dream engagement would be on a sunset cruise, and Enrico pulled off the dream proposal in the presence of their closest loved ones. Getting down on one knee as Natasha turned around taking in the breathtaking views of the sun setting over the Cape harbour, the emotional proposal was captured by a professional photographer and videographer. The unsuspecting Natasha was brought to tears when the love of her life professed his love for her and popped the question. Natasha shared that the love she has for her now fiancé is unmatched. Enrico asked Natasha Joubert to marry him on Friday, 23 February. “Yes to today, tomorrow and every day after. Enrico and I am celebrating 8 years and 5 months together today and eternity to come. Sakkie, ek’s lief vir jou! Ek gaan jou vroutjie word (I am going to be your wife.)” “As I move forward as Miss South Africa 2023, I am devoted to being in service to my fellow South Africans. I will represent my country with pride, showcasing its beauty, diversity and untapped potential,” said Joubert in her acceptance speech. 1. What beauty pageants have you entered, and how did you fare? Miss Globe South Africa (winner), Miss Globe (Top 5), Miss Rivonia 2018 (winner), and Miss South Africa 2020 (second runner-up). I entered Miss Universe in 2020 as Miss Universe South Africa. 2. What do you think is the most important part of a beauty pageant? Always have your personal challenges. We easily forget that this is a process of upliftment, and only focusing on the crown and not the daily successes is where you can easily compare yourself, not have compassion for yourself and ultimately have self-doubt about your abilities. 3. Tell us about your family. I am the youngest of three siblings. I have an older brother, Reinier and a sister, Daniellé, both of whom are attorneys, notaries and conveyancers. My mother, Ninette, is also my business partner at Natalia Jeffery. She got her law degree at 50 years old and is currently also doing her articles to become a lawyer. 4. How do you define success? Success is having mental health, self-acceptance and passions. We are being challenged every day, and today’s generation comes with so much pressure and responsibilities. Knowing that you don’t have to live up to anyone’s expectations but your own is success. 5. How are you playing your part in your community and South Africa? I started off with my own company, where we take a few ladies every year and design and make their dream matric dance dresses. Not everyone has the means or support to make their day special. I have publicly also called for fellow creatives in the industry to jump in and assist or do the same in their area. I was fortunate to study for my degree through bursaries that I won in modelling competitions. 6. What do you love about South Africa? From our warm and welcoming people to our food and love for our culture; and our climate and scenery, the list is endless. But I need to highlight that when we unite, it’s the most powerful movement. A country that truly will stand behind you, and with this journey, I am in service of them. 7. Who are your local and international role models, and why? Local would be my Gumpie – a second father who has given grace and patience a new meaning. I don’t have an international role model. 8. If you could have lunch with anyone famous – dead or alive – who would it be and why?