When the USA’s R’Bonney Gabriel was crowned Miss Universe 2022 in the early hours of Sunday morning, millions of Africans’ hearts broke for Ndavi Nokeri, Miss South Africa.
However, as the sole representative of Africa in the Top 16, her family weren’t worried that she didn’t win; they couldn’t have been prouder of her.
“As a big brother, I’m very proud. Ndavi did very well. She represented our family and South Africa very well,” said her brother Nyiko.
Nyiko and his wife, Nkateko Nokeri, told Scrolla.Africa that they stayed awake throughout the pageant which was live from 03:00 on Sunday morning South African time.
The competition was held at the New Orleans Morial Convention Center in Louisiana in the US. The South African beauty was competing against 84 other queens from all over the world.
Ndavi just missed out on the top three, with Venezuela’s Amanda Dudamel named as the first runner-up and Andreina Martinez from Dominican Republic, the second runner-up.
“I just feel like Miss Universe was not ready for the kind of leadership that Ndavi is carrying,” said Nyiko.
Meanwhile, Nkateko said Ndavi fought until the end, as she carried herself well in the pageant and her confidence showed on stage.
“Ndavi carried the whole of Africa, that is a win for us,” she said.
Nkateko looked ahead to Ndavi’s next competition and encouraged the country to once again get behind her.
“The journey continues, as we prepare for the next pageant, Miss Supranational. South Africa, get ready to vote and to also make her trend once again.”
Ndavi’s parents, Pastor Moses and Betty Nokeri, are in the States to support their daughter.
Pastor Moses is full of gratitude as he thanked the whole of South Africa, “servants of God” who have been praying for her, family and friends.
“Thank you for supporting our dear intelligent and beautiful daughter,” he told the publication.
Pictured above: Miss South Africa Ndavi Nokeri
