By Shonani Mufamadi
Talent, poise, ambition, brains, and controversy clashed as twenty-five contestants, fifteen women and ten gentlemen, competed for the crowns at the Mr and Miss University of Limpopo and Miss Thick Madame 2025 pageant. Organised by the UL Turf Royalty Unit under Chairperson Prince Khosa, with support from Student Life, Governance, and the Residence Committee, the event was held at Tiro Hall on 16 August.
Aimed at crowning campus pride, contestants faced judges who assessed their presentation, communication, leadership potential, and alignment with the university’s values. Finalists were grilled on issues such as gender-based violence, mental health, and technology, proposing solutions that tested both their confidence and vision for change.
New Turf Royalty Empire stands proud in crowns and sashes. Photo by: Survice Mokwena
After hours of dazzling showcases and intense judging, winners were crowned in three categories.
- Miss UL Thick Madame 2025: Personality – Charmain Matjie; 1st Princess – Nkareng Makgatho; 2nd Princess – Maria Mangena; Queen/Miss Thick Madame – Charmain Matjie.
- Mr UL 2025: Personality – Melford Maimele; 1st Prince – Ntandokazimu Molapo; 2nd Prince – Mahudu Keabetswe; King of UL – Glen Mogofe.
- Miss UL 2025: Personality – Mosa Matlokoa; 1st Princess – Maupi Mmadira; 2nd Princess – Mpho Molepo; Queen/Miss UL – Zwivhuya Khomola.
Glen Mogofe (24). “I feel incredible. I’m thankful to everyone who believed in me,” said King of UL Glen Mogofe. Photo by Survice Mokwena
Charmain Matjie (19), Miss UL Thick Madame. Photo by Survice Mokwena
Zwivhuya Khomola (21), Miss UL 2025. Photo by Survice Mokwena
The night’s most dramatic twist came when a logistical error from the judges briefly excluded Zwivhuya Khomola, only for the decision to be reversed. She was later crowned Miss UL 2025. “I’m grateful for the opportunity it was God’s plan,” Khomola said.
Student caught in dramatic moment during crowning controversy. Photo by Survice Mokwena
But not everyone was convinced. Some students expressed frustration with the handling of the crowning, sparking debate about fairness and transparency. Despite the drama, the pageant also celebrated art and entertainment, with performances by Zoli White Snow and Miniasque Dididado electrifying the crowd.
Chairperson Prince Khosa admitted the crowning process was stressful and faced challenges, but concluded, “In the end, the event was a success.”
