MISS South Africa 2023 top 12 finalist, Leverne José, has withdrawn from the pageant.
This after the 23-year-old from the Northern Cape was accused of bullying by her former high schoolmates. Over the past weeks, she has been trending after the accusations were made public and she’s been attacked.
Leverne has since apologised.
“As a survivor of bullying, I learnt how to protect myself from bullying during my school years. If my actions in protecting myself caused harm to anyone, I offer my sincere apologies. The pain of being a target has left an indelible mark on my heart, and I would never intentionally cause hurt or contribute to someone else's suffering.
“Kindness, respect and empathy have always been my guiding principles and I have unwaveringly worked to adhere to these values. It deeply troubles me that such grave accusations could be levelled against me. While I firmly believe in my own accountability and responsibility, I also hold steadfastly to the principles of fairness and justice,” said Leverne.
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The Miss South Africa Organisation said they support Leverne and their mental health partner, the South African Depression And Anxiety Group (SADAG), has provided counselling to her.
“The Miss South Africa Organisation does not condone bullying of any kind. We accept Leverne’s decision to pull out of the competition and respect her for owning her truth and taking this time to focus on her own healing,” said the organisation.
