Zozibini Tunzi

About

Zozibini Tunzi is the Eastern Cape beauty who redefined global standards when she was crowned Miss Universe 2019. From the village of Sidwadweni to the world stage, she made history as the first black South African woman to win the title, championing natural beauty along the way. Here is a closer look at her rise in this Zozibini Tunzi biography.

Zozibini Tunzi’s Personal Life

Zozibini Tunzi was born Zozibini Tunzi on 18 September 1993 in Tsolo, in South Africa’s Eastern Cape, and raised in the nearby village of Sidwadweni. One of four sisters, she was brought up by her mother, a school principal, and her father, who worked in higher education.

Zozibini Tunzi’s Schooling

Zozibini Tunzi moved to Cape Town to study at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology, graduating with a National Diploma in Public Relations Management in 2018 — a foundation that would serve her well on the global pageant stage.

Zozibini Tunzi’s Career

Zozibini Tunzi is a South African model, pageant titleholder and advocate who made history on the world stage.

Who is Zozibini Tunzi?

Zozibini Tunzi became a global icon for natural beauty and confidence, championing dark skin and short natural hair at a time when those features were still under-represented in mainstream pageantry.

Miss Universe 2019

Zozibini Tunzi was crowned Miss South Africa in 2019 and, later that year, won Miss Universe 2019 — becoming the third South African and the first black South African woman to claim the title. Her win was celebrated worldwide as a landmark moment.

Zozibini Tunzi’s Relationships

Is Zozibini Tunzi married?

Yes, Zozibini Tunzi is married. She wed Luthando Bolowana in 2025, with a traditional celebration held in her home village of Sidwadweni in the Eastern Cape.

Zozibini Tunzi’s Net Worth

Zozibini Tunzi’s exact net worth has not been officially disclosed, and estimates vary. Her earnings span modelling, ambassadorial roles, hosting and advocacy work built on her Miss Universe platform.

Social Media

Zozibini Tunzi commands a large international following on Instagram and X, where she shares her advocacy, fashion and hosting projects.

Zozibini Tunzi Q&A

How old is Zozibini Tunzi?

Zozibini Tunzi is 32 years old. She was born on 18 September 1993 in Tsolo, Eastern Cape.

Where is Zozibini Tunzi from?

Zozibini Tunzi is from Tsolo in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, and grew up in the village of Sidwadweni.

What is Zozibini Tunzi known for?

Zozibini Tunzi is known for winning Miss Universe 2019, the first black South African woman to do so.

Who is Zozibini Tunzi married to?

Zozibini Tunzi is married to Luthando Bolowana, whom she wed in 2025.

Also known as:
Zozi
Real name:
Zozibini Tunzi
Occupation:
Model, Pageant Titleholder
Age:
32 years
Star sign:
Virgo
Nationality:
South African
Birth place:
Tsolo, Eastern Cape, South Africa
Height:
N/A
Children:
N/A
Net Worth:
Undisclosed (estimates vary)