When Zozibini “Zozi” Tunzi, former Miss South Africa and Miss Universe, recently appeared as a guest judge at the Miss Universe Vietnam finale, she made headlines not just for her role but for her surprising new hairstyle.
Zozi’s New Look Sparks Controversy
Over the weekend, Zozi Tunzi arrived in Vietnam to judge the pageant finale held on September 14.
Known for her commitment to celebrating women and their voices, Zozi expressed her excitement about the diverse group of women she would be meeting.
However, her appearance drew significant attention. Zozi, who is renowned for her distinctive short, natural hair, sported a long, flowing weave for the event.
This change in her signature look did not sit well with many of her fans.
On social media, reactions ranged from disappointment to outright criticism.
Some fans felt that her natural hair was a key part of her identity. Comments included:
- @the_kn_diary: “She is more beautiful with her original African hair.”
- @FemaleEbuka: “That hair doesn’t look nice.”
- @DoreenMasinga: “That hair is so not it! They did her dirty.”
- @GPZPee: “Disappointed about the weave. We got to know Zozi with her SHORT NATURAL HAIR. That’s what made her unique. Is she ashamed of her natural look now?”
- @BotsheloBophelo: “Zozi, you’re so beautiful; there’s no authenticity in that hair. You made being African fashionable by embracing your natural features.”
Even Ntsiki Mazwai, a media personality known for her outspoken views on wigs and weaves, chimed in with her disapproval: “What have they done to our Miss Universe?” she tweeted.
A Legacy of Embracing Natural Beauty
Zozi Tunzi’s natural hair has been a significant part of her public persona.
When she first competed in Miss South Africa in 2019 with a shaved head, she sparked a movement celebrating natural beauty.
Her unconventional look helped her win Miss Universe and challenged traditional beauty standards.
Reflecting on her participation in Miss SA, she mentioned: “I grew up in a world where a woman who looks like me, with my kind of skin and my kind of hair, was never considered to be beautiful.
And I think it’s time that that stopped today.”
Interestingly, Zozi had initially competed in Miss SA in 2017 with a weave but did not make it to the Top 10.
Her natural hair journey has since become a powerful symbol of self-acceptance and authenticity.
What’s Next for Zozi?
As Zozi Tunzi navigates this latest wave of criticism, it will be interesting to see how she addresses the feedback and what steps she takes moving forward in her career and public image.