The Miss South Africa organisation has confirmed that Stephanie Weil has officially stepped down as CEO after several years at the helm. Weil, who succeeded her late mother Suzanne Weil in 2019, has been instrumental in modernising the pageant and transforming it into a platform focused on female empowerment and inclusivity.
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In an official statement, the Miss SA team extended their well wishes to Weil, noting that she will remain involved during the leadership transition. “An agreement has been reached that Ms Weil will be leaving the organisation after many years as CEO of Miss South Africa. She will stay on for as long as is required to ensure a smooth transition to new leadership and to serve the best interests of the Miss South Africa organisation,” the statement read.
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A legacy of change and modernisation
Under Weil’s leadership, Miss SA underwent a significant transformation. The competition moved away from traditional beauty standards and began actively promoting diversity, social responsibility and advocacy for women’s rights. The pageant became a stage for women from all walks of life to challenge stereotypes, share their stories and champion causes close to their hearts.
Weil’s exit marks the end of an era that saw the pageant grow into a more socially conscious and progressive brand, one that resonated with a new generation of South African women.
Uncertainty around the 2025 competition
Weil’s departure comes at a time when the organisation is facing increasing public scrutiny over the 2025 competition. With no official updates on the Top 30 contestants — usually revealed around this time of year — fans have taken to social media to express their concern and confusion.
One user wrote, “We would love a professional communication regarding Miss SA 2025 top 30,” while another pleaded, “Miss SA is usually in a month. Apparently, the pageant plans are underway? How though? Can you give us something? Anything?”
The silence has fuelled speculation about the competition’s timeline and future direction, particularly in the wake of several high-profile changes within the organisation.
Behind-the-scenes reshuffle
Earlier this year, the Miss SA organisation also confirmed that it would no longer participate in the Miss Supranational international competition after choosing not to renew its licence. Not long after, Werner Wessels, the long-time creative director, also announced his resignation.
Despite the reshuffle, the organisation insists that plans for the 2025 pageant are progressing well. “The organisers of the Miss SA contest are making good progress with the preparations, which will be a huge success,” the team said.
While there are still more questions than answers at this stage, the departure of two major figures — Weil and Wessels — signals a turning point for the brand. What remains to be seen is how Miss SA will maintain its relevance and reputation in an increasingly competitive and conscious pageant landscape.
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Featured Image: Instagram | official_misssa
