PALM SPRINGS, USA — In a stunning testament to timeless beauty and perseverance, South African pageant veteran Marelize Steyn Earle has captured the prestigious 2025 Mrs Globe Classique crown, more than three decades after first gracing the pageant stage.
The former Mrs South Africa triumphed over 21 international competitors during a spectacular ceremony in Palm Springs in the US on Saturday evening, bringing another international title home to South Africa.
Earle, resplendent in a dazzling custom-made Werner Day creation of silver adorned with intricate crystal and bead embellishments, dominated the competition from start to finish. Before claiming the ultimate title, she swept the preliminary awards, being named Mrs Fitness and Businesswoman of the Year, while also earning the respect of her fellow contestants who voted her the recipient of the Contestant’s Choice award.
“When I received the crown, all I could think about was the journey that brought me here,” Earle said after her victory. “This achievement proves that staying authentic and persistent can lead to extraordinary results. I want women everywhere to understand that age should never limit your aspirations—there’s always room to grow and evolve into an even better version of yourself.”
The George-based aesthetician and makeup artist’s pageant career spans decades, beginning with her placement as Miss South Africa Second Princess in 1993, where she shared the stage with Jacqui Mofokeng, the first Black woman to wear the Miss SA crown. Earle later claimed the Mrs South Africa title in 2002, and has since remained active in the pageant community as a valued mentor.
Her latest victory reinforces South Africa’s growing dominance in international pageantry, following closely behind 2024 Mrs South Africa Queen Tshego Gaelae’s Mrs World triumph earlier this year.
The Mrs Globe Classique competition, recognized as the world’s premier pageant for women over 45, tests contestants across multiple categories during its six-day program.
“Being selected from such an extraordinary group of accomplished women is truly humbling,” Earle said. “This experience has created memories I’ll cherish forever. I’m deeply grateful to Mrs South Africa for entrusting me with representing our nation.”
Joani Jacobs, CEO of Mrs South Africa, views Earle’s achievement as confirmation of the organization’s continued excellence.
“What makes Marelize’s victory particularly meaningful is how she embodies our values even two decades after her reign,” Jacobs explained. “She hasn’t merely worn the crown—she’s lived its principles through determination, elegance, and meaningful purpose.”
As Earle begins her year as Mrs Globe Classique 2025, she stands as a powerful reminder that beauty, influence, and impact know no age limits.
