Miss South Africa Natasha Joubert and her runner-up Bryoni Govender have reacted to the shock resignation of Miss USA Noelia Voigt.
The American beauty queen renounced her title mid-reign amidst a battle with her mental health.
Like Noelia, Natasha has also been vocal about struggling with anxiety and depression.
MISS USA QUITS AMID MENTAL HEALTH BATTLE
On Monday, 6 April, Miss USA Noelia Voigt announced her resignation with immediate effect, citing her mental health as the reason behind the shock move.
A part of her statement read: “I strongly value the importance of making decisions that feel best for you and your mental health. As individuals, we grow through experiencing different things in life that lead us to learn more about ourselves.
She continued: “My hope is that I continue to inspire others to remain steadfast, prioritize your mental health, advocate for yourself and others by using your voice, and never be afraid of what the future holds, even if it feels uncertain.”
The 24-year-old captioned the post: “Never compromise your physical and mental well-being. Our health is our wealth.”
Noelia Voigt was crowned Miss USA on 29 September 2023 and would later represent the country at Miss Universe in November, where she placed in the Top 20.
In previous interviews, Noelia – an anti-bullying advocate – has been vocal about being on the receiving end of bullying.
Two years ago, former Miss USA Cheslie Kryst took her own life after committing suicide amid her silent mental health battle.
The 30-year-old beauty queen tragically leaped from the 29th floor of a New York high-rise building.
NATASHA JOUBERT, BRYONI GOVENDER SEND SUPPORT
Meanwhile, Miss SA Natasha Joubert has voiced her support to Noelia Voigt amid her own mental health battle.
In the comment section, the reigning queen left several heart emojis. Her runner-up, Bryoni Govender – who competed alongside Miss USA at the Miss Universe pageant, also commented: “You are incredible, Queen. Supporting YOU all the way”.
Last month, Natasha shared an emotional Instagram post documenting her struggle to keep up appearances.
Posting a picture of herself after an emotional breakdown, the 26-year-old shared: “I took this picture with the intent of sharing it because surely other people also go through days of crying the entire day and can’t stop.
“There has been a few of these moments I kept in the archives. And this past two weeks, I’ve been feeling like I felt on this day”.
Natasha Joubert – who was crowned Miss SA in August 2023 – has been vocal about how her stint at the Miss Universe in 2021 left her feeling disappointed and depressed.
Natasha – runner-up to 2020 winner Shudu Musida – represented SA at the global pageant. However, she did not place in the Top 21.
The brunette beauty sought professional help through a psychologist and life coach, which she believes helped her get back on track.
In recent years, Shudu Musida has also been an advocate for mental health, particularly among women.