Shudufhadzo Musida – Venda, Limpopo
Name:
Shudufhadzo Musida
Region:
I come from Ha-Masia, Limpopo but currently reside in Randburg,
Johannesburg
Age:
23 (Born July 18, 1996)
Occupation:
I have a Bachelor of Social Sciences in Philosophy, Politics and Economics from the University of Pretoria. I am currently pursuing a BA Honours in International Relations at the University of Witwatersrand.
Why do you want to be Miss South Africa and what do you think you will be able to bring to the role?
I am passionate about the economic and educational empowerment of women and children.
This passion is deeply rooted in the fact that I grew up in a village where people have five career choices – doctor, nurse, police officer, teacher or working in a store.
There is nothing wrong with these careers but there is such a wider range to choose from. I believe that this platform could highlight that through its vision of female empowerment and breaking boundaries. I would also ensure that my social causes are carried out.
How have you handled the lockdown due to the Covid 19?
I have taken the time to prioritise my mental health and myself. It’s been difficult but you learn to be kind to yourself and remember that these are unusual circumstances and it’s okay not to be okay sometimes. But I have been blessed to find peace in this tough time.
What has this time taught you?
It has taught me that I don’t need big victories. Small victories, such as taking an hour out to meditate or complete a task is enough. Sometimes we search for joy when it lies with gratitude for just waking up.2020 has been a tough year globally.
Do you see any positives in what has happened in the past months and weeks?
We got to appreciate human interaction and what the beauty of being outside means. Now we appreciate the beauty of nature and of our loved ones. This has been a return to self.
What do you love about South Africa?
The cultures, the food, the people – the people are everything. Also, our ability to love and find joy in the darkest of times.
What would like to change about South Africa?
The stigma against mental health and the disregard towards gender-based violence.
Who is a previous Miss South Africa who has inspired you and why?
Reigning Miss Universe Zozibini Tunzi inspired me to enter because of her grace and her
ability to make a statement without straining her voice.
Who are your role models?
My role models include Michelle Obama, Beyoncé, Toni Morrison, Dr. Phumzile Mlambo-Gcuka and Amina J. Mohammed. They are such strong women with so much grace. They inspire me to be better versions of myself.
Tell us a bit more about your family:
I live with my mother, Thandi (42) who is a real estate agent. And I have a little sister,Zwonka (13), who is in Grade 8.
What do you do in your spare time/hobbies etc?
Studying consumes all of my time but when I can, I sing, practice the keyboard and read.
Do you think beauty pageants are still relevant today?
Pageants will always be relevant because they are embedded in our society. They also evolve with the times, so it’s no longer just a showcase of a woman’s beauty but the beauty of her mind too and how she can be of service to others beyond herself.
Name two of your female role models?
Beyoncé and Amina J. Mohammed. They encompass both my potential beings, the powerful singer and the powerful advocate.
What is your message to young girls and young women in South Africa?
Love yourselves first, fight for what you want and for yourself too. But remember fighting doesn’t always have to be loud or vocal – it can be as simple as being silent and choosing to prioritise your peace.
If you won the Miss South Africa crown and was able to meet one person, who would it be?
Amina J. Mohammed, because I see myself in her and she inspires me to work harder and to find my voice in my journey towards my dream of working for or with the United Nations.
What is the one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
I can sing!
What is the No 1 piece of advice that you would give to your younger self?
Love yourself.
Describe yourself in three words:
Caring, smart, blessed.
What are you reading?
Live the Let-Go Life’ by Joseph Prince.
What music are you listening to?
Usher, disco, and gospel in the mornings.
What are your favourite TV shows?
Little Fires Everywhere and Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.
What is your favourite meal?
Sushi.
Who’s your local and international celeb crush?
Local crush is Trevor Noah (if he is still considered local) and international is Miguel.
What’s your guilty pleasure?
Woolworths caramel centred cupcakes.
Social media tags:
Ø Instagram: abigailmusida
Ø Twitter: @abigailmusida
