Homecoming queen; Demi-Leigh has arrived back in SA
South Africa's Miss Universe, Demi-Leigh Nel-Pieters, has returned to Mzansi from New York on Wednesday morning.
Nel-Pieters is the second South African to wear this prestigious crown, since Margaret Gardiner in 1978.
She has been based in New York City since her crowning in Las Vegas in November last year.
"I can't begin to express my gratitude and how proud I am to represent our country as Miss Universe. Being a global ambassador is as much a responsibility as it is an honour," Nel-Pieters said.
Nel-Pieters taking time for photos with fans.
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Nel-Pieters with her family.
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Nel-Pieters' arrival at O.R. Tambo International Airport.
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08:40
#MissUniverse Demi-Leigh's parents waiting eagerly for her arrival. pic.twitter.com/1XLdcxS0zs
— Jacaranda News (@JacaNews) January 24, 2018
08:10
08:08
#MissUniverse Demi-Leigh has landed and is expected to walk through arrivals at any moment now.
— Jacaranda News (@JacaNews) January 24, 2018
08:00
#MissUniverse Little Miss SA Chene Haman says she's excited to be meeting Demi-Leigh. pic.twitter.com/ptY1VvNm00
— Jacaranda News (@JacaNews) January 24, 2018
07:32
07:15
#MissUniverse More people trickling in anticipation of Demi-Leigh. pic.twitter.com/Exjflf1hhA
— Jacaranda News (@JacaNews) January 24, 2018
07:06
#MissUniverse Miss Teen SA 2018, Venouchka Gouws says Demi-Leigh is an inspiration to all young women. pic.twitter.com/eVh5tr7ZhI
— Jacaranda News (@JacaNews) January 24, 2018
07:00
#MissUniverse Miss Teen Commonwealth, Micaela Govender has also come out to welcome Demi-Leigh home. pic.twitter.com/0B3LfJMLL3
— Jacaranda News (@JacaNews) January 24, 2018