Zozibini Tunzi

Zozibini Tunzi first gained national attention when she delivered a memorable winning answer to host Steve Harvey during the 2019 Miss Universe competition. Known affectionately as Zozi, she implored young women to “take up space,” a rallying cry that resonated not only with the pageant judges who awarded her the title but also with young girls and women globally. She emphasized that it was time for them to assert their place in society and make historical impacts.

Before her tenure as Miss Universe, Tunzi worked for a global advertising agency, showcasing a strong passion for music and the arts. She ventured into pageantry inspired by previous titleholders who leveraged their platforms to become community leaders and agents of change. Tunzi saw the crown as a means to amplify her voice and catalyze positive transformation. Throughout her reign, she championed women’s empowerment, diversity, and inclusion across various sectors, including the beauty industry and media.

During her reign and beyond, Tunzi engaged actively in global discussions and advocacy against gender-based violence and for gender equality. She used her platform to support significant initiatives and organizations such as UN Women's #HeForShe campaign and participated in impactful events like the Forbes Women Summit and “This Girl Wins” Annual Empowerment Summit. Notably, she also focused on promoting natural beauty and self-acceptance, famously advocating for her natural short hair, a first for a Miss Universe winner. Tunzi extended her influence to various media, appearing on shows like "The Masked Singer" and engaging in discussions on platforms such as Good Morning America and NXT. Her advocacy efforts are also channeled through "#UniverseUnited," a social media talk platform she created in partnership with UN Women SA and the African Union.

Tunzi's commitment to societal issues is set to expand with her upcoming film debut in "The Woman King," alongside notable actors Viola Davis and Thuso Mbedu, and her role as a special guest host at Miss Universe Philippines 2023. Through these platforms, she continues to inspire and influence, aiming to empower young Africans and global audiences to become changemakers in their communities.