Former Miss SA Lalela Mswane Makes Social Media Accounts Private Amid Backlash Over Israel Trip

Lalela Mswane, a former Miss SA, has decided to make all of her social media accounts private following the backlash she received for her trip to Israel in 2021.

Being a professional dancer and law graduate, Lalela Mswane found herself in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons once again.

This controversy emerged amid South Africa’s genocide case against Israel and its alliance with Gaza, which is currently being heard at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

On December 13, 2021, the Miss Universe pageant was held in Eilat, Israel. The choice of location faced significant criticism from the global community.

Despite the public and government backlash, both the Miss SA organization and Lalela Mswane proceeded with the trip and she was ultimately crowned as Miss Universe 2021 second-runner-up.

During a conversation with The South African at the 2023 Miss SA crowning event, Lalela Mswane addressed the criticism she received and referred to herself as one of the most controversial title holders.

She emphasized that she welcomes criticism as an opportunity for personal growth, and while people may disagree with her decisions, respect is crucial.

When asked if she regrets any of her choices, including her visit to Israel, Lalela confirmed that she does not.

Lalela Mswane is not the only one facing criticism. Both the Miss SA and Miss Universe organizations have come under fire for hosting the 2021 pageant in Israel.

Public figures on Twitter expressed their discontent, questioning why the Miss Universe organization agreed to host the pageant in a country that faced international condemnation. They also highlighted the responsibility of the Miss SA organization in taking a stand against participation.

Lalela Mswane revealed the toll her decision had on her mental health. In an interview with Anika Larsen, she disclosed that she had even contemplated suicide.

She explained how people who initially criticized her later expressed their approval without considering the trauma she had endured. The constant backlash on Twitter and in person pushed her to the edge, making her contemplate ending her life.