NWU alumna Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters has been crowned as the new Miss Universe. On Sunday night in Las Vegas the 22-year-old beauty and current Miss South Africa beat more than 90 participants from across the globe to be named the first South African to hold this prestigious title since Margaret Gardiner 39 years ago.

During the NWU’s Alumni Award ceremony in October, Demi-Leigh received the Ambassador Award for the superlative way in which she represents the university and the country on the international stage.

Demi-Leigh, who was crowned during her student days as Miss Varsity Cup in 2015, was born in Sedgefield in the Western Cape, a town with just more than 8 000 residents. She was the first head girl of her high school and the deputy junior mayor of George in grade 11.

This year she a launched her Unbreakable campaign, which focuses on empowering women of all ages with the skills to cope with challenging experiences and events. She also held workshops across the country.

The NWU is proud to see what she already has accomplished in her short career. It is undoubtable the start of many more achievements. Congratulations, and well done!