Ndavi Nokeri reflects on Miss Universe journey: 'My heart is full' | Life

17 Jan

Bronwyn McKay

0:00

Miss SA Ndavi Nokeri.

Photo supplied: Miss South Africa

Miss South Africa Ndavi Nokeri is reflecting on her Miss Universe journey.
Nokeri made the top 16 of the 71st edition of Miss Universe on Saturday, with USA's R'Bonney Gabriel winning the crown.
Also sharing her pride in Nokeri is South Africa's first Miss Universe winner, Margaret Gardiner.

Miss South Africa Ndavi Nokeri is reflecting on her Miss Universe journey.

Nokeri made the top 16 of the 71st edition of Miss Universe on Saturday, which saw India's Harnaaz Sandhu crown her successor, USA's R'Bonney Gabriel, during the event held in New Orleans, United States.

After the crowning, Nokeri applauded Gabriel, saying: "I would like to congratulate R'Bonney, who is a worthy winner and is going to be a wonderful Miss Universe."

On Monday, Miss SA took time to reflect on her own journey to the Miss Universe stage.

"What once was a dream became a reality," she wrote in a lengthy Instagram post. "I am so grateful for the journey - so much growth and love, my heart is full."

"I want every young girl and woman to know that regardless of your background, you are worthy of being in every single room you imagine yourself in. That's the message."

SEE THE POST HERE:

View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Ndavi Nokeri (@ndavi.nokerii)

Also sharing her pride in Nokeri is South Africa's first Miss Universe winner, Margaret Gardiner.

In a statement to News24, Gardiner said:

"I slipped past security in search of Ndavi and walked towards the girls. Out of the darkness came this vision with a smile so big it could only be South African! We hugged. She asked for any last advice, and I said: 'Smile.' If you have a tough time or feel nervous. Just think of me tripping. And she laughed. She was awesome. And I am so proud of her making the top 16!"

SEE THEIR PHOTO HERE:

Margaret Gardiner with Miss SA Ndavi Nokeri at the Miss Universe rehearsals.

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