22 years old Marciel Hopkins, hailing from Paarl, Western Cape, is a student of Psychology Honours Student in Stellenbosch. Marciel’s dream is not to become the most beautiful woman in the country, but to become the most influential woman in the country. “I want to be Miss South Africa so that I can make a lasting impact by being a positive role model and leader. I want to involve myself in the education system, focusing on skills development. I am 100% ready to serve my country. After 4 years of studying and being in the privileged position to obtain a degree and an honours degree, I want to give back as much as I possibly can.”

Marciel is highly inspired by former Miss South Africa winners, Jo-Ann Strauss and Amy Kleinhans, who, according to Marciel are dynamic enough to balance successful careers and motherhood simultaneously. Her biggest support and inspiration in life is her mother, who is a former teacher and now a housewife.

Marciel likes to spend her spare time, running, reading, spending time with family and friends, and in the serenity and peace of nature. “Never let people talk you out of your dreams. You had a purpose before anyone had an opinion. If you want something, make it happen. Never limit yourself by the belief system of others”, a message that Marciel wants to share with young aspiring girls. She is a big Angelina Jolie fan, and would love to meet her someday. “I find it inspiring that she’s involved with controversial, critical world issues and not just about the glitz and the glamour”, says Marciel, talking baout Angelina Jolie.

Coming back to your opinion, do you think Marciel has what it takes to be the next Miss South Africa?