It’s a true saying, ‘You can’t have the best of both the worlds’. Well, in the case of Miss Universe 2017 Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters, we can say Miss Universe though. Yesterday the first runner-up of Miss South Africa 2017 Adé van Heerden was handed over Demi’s crown at a ceremony held at The Maslow, in Sandton (JHB). At the same event, Boipelo Mabe was also handed over the crown of the 1st runner-up.

Apparently, Miss South Africa winner has to fulfil her responsibilities staying in South Africa itself, but Demi-Leigh has already moved to New York for one year to accomplish her duties as Miss Universe 2017, so she can’t obviously be available in South Africa. Now Adé has taken over the responsibilities and will be completely involved in her role as Miss South Africa 2017 for the next 6 months.

Remember in 2014 when the beautiful Rolene Strauss also had to vacate her national tiara once she was crowned Miss World 2014. Well, it seems the South Africans take their responsibilities involved in these beauty pageants quite seriously, and why not? These girls go through an extensive training to learn and educate themselves about their roles and duties as a beauty pageant.

You might remember Adé van Heerden from her sizzling Miss World 2017 performance. Landing in the final Top 10 of the competition, she impressed all with her confidence and sweet smile. A student of Medicine and Surgery, this queen is 26 years old and stands tall at 175 cm. A sportsperson at heart, Adè van has an attitude of a winner and likes to show team spirit which makes her a very cordial person.

Just after receiving the crown, she expressed her happiness through this caption on Instagram, “That moment when a dream becomes a reality. Thank you.” She also mentioned that,

“I look forward to growing the Miss South Africa brand and working with the class of 2018. I believe that it is important to invest your time and share as much knowledge as possible with the youth.”

During my time as the first princess, I dedicated myself to teaching young women about their bodies, self-love, making healthy choices and self-belief. I hope to continue to do so. I will also continue building on the work that Demi-Leigh has done so far. My mission is to be of service to my country in whatever way needed.”

Congratulations to the new queen! She definitely seems like the girl who will perform her duties nobly and with utter sincerity.