MBABANE – Luyanda Zuma, first runner-up of Miss South Africa 2025, described her visit to Eswatini for the Incwala festivities as a deeply enriching cultural experience.
The 23-year-old from Pietermaritzburg shared several images on Instagram showing traditional Eswatini grass huts and moments with members of the royal family. “Arrived amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Swaziland for the royal festivities. I have the greatest honour of being hosted by Her Royal Highness Queen LaNgangaza and Her Royal Highness Princess Temaswati. The hospitality has been phenomenal,” Zuma wrote on Monday, 5 January.
She continued to document her experience over the next two days, describing the ceremony and interactions with the royal family. On Tuesday, 6 January, she wrote, “My time in Swaziland has been absolutely phenomenal so far as I experience the beautiful Incwala Ceremony as a guest of His Majesty King Mswati III. I am learning so much about this beautiful country and the essence of Incwala through the interactions I’ve had with his wonderful family, looking forward to what day 2 for me has to offer.”
Zuma concluded her trip on Wednesday, 7 January, reflecting on the highlights. “My heart is leaving Swaziland full. The cultural significance of Incwala was truly felt. I even had the honour of meeting His Majesty King Mswati III, adding onto the highlights of my day was Her Royal Highness Queen LaNgangaza, who made me feel completely at home. She topped up my traditional outfit with the most beautiful neck pieces, a heartfelt gift just before I left. I’m still in awe of the richness of the cultural experience I was blessed to be immersed in,” she wrote.
Beyond pageantry, Zuma has built a career in acting, taking on roles that mirror her own growth and strength. She played Liyana, King Shaka’s love interest, in the historical series Shaka Ilembe and stars as Captain Mo in the thriller Levels. For each role, Zuma immerses herself in the culture and psychology of her characters to bring authenticity to her performances.
Her visit to Eswatini combined her passion for culture, acting, and empowerment. Zuma described the trip as part of her “Circle of Empowerment,” a mission to ensure no young person is left behind, while experiencing one of the country’s most revered cultural ceremonies firsthand.
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