In a move that has stunned the pageant world and sparked a wave of support across the country, Verushka Singh has officially stepped down from her prestigious title as Mrs South Africa. The 40-year-old trailblazer, who made history as the first Indian woman to wear the crown, announced this week that she is relinquishing her duties to focus on a far more important role: being a mother to her nine-year-old son.
Originally from Reservoir Hills and now based in Johannesburg, Singh’s decision comes after a deeply challenging year. Her son, who has special needs, has seen his condition deteriorate significantly since last year, requiring a level of care and presence that the demanding schedule of Mrs South Africa simply could not accommodate. For Singh, the choice between the glitz of the international stage and the needs of her child was ultimately a clear, albeit painful, one.
The former queen opened up about the emotional weight of her departure, making it clear that this was not a snap judgement but a necessary sacrifice.
“Making this decision was not taken lightly. It was deeply personal and intentional.”
The cracks in the balancing act began to show shortly after her victory. New information from her son’s school, combined with the logistical nightmare of moving him to a different facility, highlighted just how much he was struggling. As her official duties took her away from home more frequently, the impact on her son became impossible to ignore.
“There have been a lot of changes that happened with him that I didn't necessarily know going into the pageant. This year has been incredibly difficult especially if I am away. It wasn’t the right decision at this point for me to continue.“I did see that when I was not here, even with support, it wasn’t that good for him. I had to make a very difficult decision,” she said.
Singh’s reign was nothing short of historic. By becoming the first Indian woman to hold the Mrs South Africa title, she broke barriers and became a symbol of representation for many. Yet, even as she acknowledged the magnitude of her achievement, she remained firm that her identity is not tied to a piece of jewellery or a title.
“It doesn’t define me to have that title when something more important needed my attention and focus.“Being Mrs South Africa was an incredible honour, especially being the first Indian woman and I loved it, but as a mother I knew my son needs me and my attention. When I was not there he would become unwell and he regressed in school.“For me to continue in something and go to the international pageant while knowing that this is happening at home didn't feel like something that was aligned with my personal values,” said Singh.
Her departure serves as a poignant reminder of the invisible struggles many high-achieving women face behind the scenes. Singh spoke with the raw honesty of a mother who knows that her presence is the one thing her child cannot do without.
“I think most mothers at any point in their lives when you need to step down and do something you make the sacrifices where you need to and you continue.”
While the crown may be off her head, Singh is far from finished with her mission to make an impact. A chemical engineer and climate change strategist by profession, she plans to dive back into her advocacy work. Her consultancy, which focuses on reducing carbon emissions and helping organisations adapt to environmental challenges, remains a top priority. She believes that the platform of Mrs South Africa allowed her to humanise the climate crisis in ways she hadn't expected.
“During my reign I had a few speaking opportunities and reached several organisations, helping to spread the message and raise awareness on a more human level,” said Singh.
Reflecting on her journey, she spoke fondly of the "sisterhood" she found within the pageant—the close friendships and connections that she considers the true highlight of her experience. She entered the competition not expecting to win, but seeking a journey of self-discovery and connection.
“I love the country and the impact I want to make in climate change will definitely continue. I don’t feel defined by a title, I do feel like everyone is a Miss or Mrs South Africa. You don’t need a crown on your head to feel like you are making an impact, or you’re a special or valuable person. When family comes first and you need to step away and do something that’s incredibly personal and important, then do that,” she said.“My favourite part was the sisterhood. I made the closest and best friends. Meeting new people and connecting was my highlight.”“I decided to do something for myself when I entered the pageant. I didn’t expect to win. I entered for the journey and sisterhood.”
The Mrs South Africa organisation has expressed its full support for Singh’s decision. Joani Jacobs, the CEO, praised her for the dedication and professionalism she displayed throughout her reign.
“We respect her decision and support her in prioritising what matters most in this season of her life,” said Jacobs.
In line with the pageant’s succession protocol, the first princess, Carika Bebb, has stepped up to assume the duties and responsibilities of Mrs South Africa 2026 with immediate effect. As Bebb takes over the mantle, the legacy of Verushka Singh will be remembered not just for the history she made, but for the courage she showed in choosing her family when they needed her most.
Follow Us on Twitter
