Demi-Leigh, originally from the Western Cape, completed her BCom Business Management and Entrepreneurship degree in 2016 at the NWU’s campus in Potchefstroom. In 2015 she represented the NWU when she won the national Miss Varsity Cup.

“We pride ourselves in delivering well-rounded students,” Prof Dan Kgwadi, vice-chancellor of the NWU, said after the announcement.

“Congratulations! You have made the NWU proud.”

“The accomplishment of Demi-Leigh is once again proof of how we aspire to equip our students to make a difference in whatever sphere of society they enter,” said Prof Fika Janse van Rensburg, acting rector of the NWU's campus in Potchefstroom.

Demi-Leigh will be invited back to her alma mater shortly, to allow the NWU to celebrate the achievement with her.

As Miss South Africa, she walks away with R1 million in cash and other prizes such as a brand-new car, free medical insurance cover, free make-up and jewellery, hair treatments, dry cleaning and grooming services, luggage and fragrances.