During the Cape Town leg of her nationwide homecoming tour, Miss Universe Zozibini Tunzi thrilled crowds in the streets of the Mother City.
Cape Town was Zozibini's final stop on her week-long homecoming tour, which kicked off in the Eastern Cape on Monday.
The reigning Miss Universe was seated on the Cape Town Carnival's colourful "Sunrise" float alongside dancers, wearing costumes inspired by the South African flag - as she made her way through the busy streets.
"Sunrise" in particular sent a message of waking up one's power, of expressing oneself in whichever shape or form that may be. And given Zozibini's remarkable talent and life story, the two of them couldn't be more aligned.
Speaking to a crowd ahead of the parade, Zozibini spoke about her love for the city, saying that wherever she goes, she always speaks highly of Cape Town.
About her homecoming tour, she said that her highlight was arriving at OR Tambo on Saturday, and receiving a heartfelt welcome from the country.
"With Carnival taking place in little more than a month, the City of Cape Town's invitation for us to entertain alongside this stunning beauty couldn't have been better timed," says Franco Pascoe, workshop coordinator for Cape Town Carnival.
"Zozibini is radiant, vibrant, and incredibly beautiful, which perfectly mirrors what Cape Town Carnival's annual street parade is all about, and gives an indication of what to expect at Carnival which takes place in little over a month," he added.
Cape Town Carnival takes place on 21 March 2020 on Somerset Road in Green Point, featuring over 2 000 costumed performers from more than 50 talented community-based groups, interspersed with giant colourful floats.
For more information, visit www.capetowncarnival.com.
Compiled by Graye Morkel