Former Miss South Africa and Miss Universe Zozibini “Zozi” Tunzi has come under scrutiny for swapping her signature natural hair for a weave at the Miss Universe Vietnam finale. Zozi, widely celebrated for promoting natural African beauty, faced criticism from some fans who disapproved of her new hairstyle choice.
Zozi’s Appearance Sparks Debate
Zozi Tunzi was invited to Vietnam to serve as a guest judge for the Miss Universe Vietnam finale, which took place on Saturday, 14 September. As a renowned advocate for women, Zozi expressed her excitement about her role in the event, stating, “Everybody who knows me knows I am a champion of women, a huge fan of women who have a voice and like to introduce us to their countries and everything that they stand for. So I’m so excited to see this calibre of women.”
However, despite the positive attention surrounding her international role, fans were quick to comment on her new hairstyle. Known for her short, natural hair, Zozi surprised many by wearing a long, flowing weave, which dramatically altered the look that had won the hearts of many during her pageant reign.
### Fans’ Reactions on Social Media
On social media platforms, fans expressed mixed reactions to Zozi’s decision to wear a weave, with some voicing their disappointment. One user commented, “She is more beautiful with her original African hair,” while another wrote, “That hair is so not it! They did her dirty.”
Others echoed these sentiments, referencing Zozi’s iconic natural look, which helped her stand out in the beauty pageant world. “Disappointed about the weave,” one fan remarked. “We came to know Zozi and subsequently won two big titles with her SHORT NATURAL HAIR. That made her stand out from the rest of the girls that had weaves.”
Some felt that the weave detracted from Zozi’s authenticity as a symbol of African beauty. One fan shared, “Zozi, you’re so beautiful; there’s no authenticity in that hair. You made being African fashionable for a lot of African women by embracing your God-given features.”
Media personality Ntsiki Mazwai, known for her outspoken opinions on wigs and weaves, also weighed in on the conversation. She tweeted, “What have they done to our Miss Universe?”
### Zozi Tunzi and Her Natural Hair Movement
Zozi’s choice of hairstyle has drawn attention because of the natural hair movement she unintentionally spearheaded. When she competed in the Miss South Africa pageant in 2019 with her bold, shaven head, it sparked a conversation about embracing natural African beauty. Zozi’s unconventional look helped her win both Miss SA and Miss Universe titles, making her an inspiration for many.
In her journey to the crown, Zozi famously said, “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. I want children to look at me and see my face, and I want them to see their faces reflected in mine.”
Interestingly, Zozi had previously entered the Miss SA pageant in 2017, wearing a weave, but did not make it to the Top 10. It wasn’t until she embraced her natural hair that her breakthrough moment arrived.
Conclusion
Zozi Tunzi remains a figure of inspiration, regardless of the hairstyle she chooses to wear. While her decision to wear a weave has sparked debate, it serves as a reminder that beauty comes in many forms, and individuals should have the freedom to express themselves in any way they choose.