Ziphozakhe Zokufa, the 1st Princess to former Miss South Africa Rolene Strauss, was crowned the new Miss South Africa yesterday in the light of Strauss’ recent win at the Miss World Pageant. Here are some facts and interesting info about her.

Name: Ziphozakhe Zokufa

Region: Walmer, Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape but currently in Cape Town for my studies.

Age: 23

Occupation:

I am a television production student at AFDA, the South African School of Motion Picture Medium and Live Performance. I also work as a model.

Previous beauty competitions/pageants won:

Teen Miss Port Elizabeth 2009; Miss Eastern Cape Teen 2009; Miss Nelson Mandela Bay 2009; New Face International winner 2009; Miss Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University 2011 and Miss Mamelodi Sundowns Eastern Cape 2012.

Why did you want to be Miss SA and what do you think you will bring to the role?

This has been a lifelong dream for me and I have always wanted to enter. I love grabbing opportunities that come my way and the ability to inspire the youth of South Africa and the country as a whole has always been something I have strived for.

Who is a previous Miss SA who has inspired you?

Basetsana Kumalo who has truly used her title accordingly. She is a powerful business woman who has implemented change in this country. She is definitely the kind of woman I aspire to become.

Tell us a bit more about your family?

I have a father who is a principal and a mother who is a teacher. Education has always been an important part of their lives. They also both run non-profit organisations in the townships of Port Elizabeth. My older brother is 26 and is a law student and soccer player. My younger sister is in high school and sings for the Eastern Cape Children’s choir.

What do you do in your spare time?

Besides modelling, I love music. I have a collection of instruments back home that include the drums, piano, clarinet and guitar and sometimes I write my own compositions. I love travelling, photography and videography. I was recently been introduced to kite-surfing and would love to take that up.

What is the one thing people would be surprised to know about you?

People are usually surprised to know that I used to be a professional singer. I travelled abroad representing my province and country.

What are you reading?

I always try to make time to read my Bible

What music do you listen to?

The soothing, Oriental sounds of David Visan.

Your favourite TV show? Top Billing.

Your favourite meal? Steak served rare.