The Miss South Africa Organisation announced the news this morning, stating José has withdrawn in light of what they explain as “baseless bullying allegations and attacks that she has faced in the past week on social media”. 

In a statement, she apologises for her actions if they harmed anyone. “As a survivor of bullying, I learned 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.”

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José expressed that it deeply troubles her that such accusations could be levelled against her. Her guiding principles in life include kindness, respect and empathy. “While I firmly believe in my own accountability and responsibility, I also hold steadfastly to the principles of fairness and justice.” 

She concluded that all forms of abuse and bullying are unacceptable and have no place in society. “Please know that I am determined to work against bullying and bring about wider awareness. I am unwavering in my stance on upholding what is right and just. I am human; the pressure has been immense and has taken its toll on me. Together, let us strive for fairness and compassion in all our interactions with others.”

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The organisation accepts her decision to withdraw from the competition. “The Miss South Africa Organisation does not condone bullying of any kind. We accept Levern’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”. Cayley Jorgensen, founder of Ingage Support, registered counsellor and SADAG spokesperson also expressed how complex bullying is. “Bullying is a complex issue with a multitude of underlying causes. All forms of bullying are harmful and unacceptable. It is essential to acknowledge the profound impact bullying has on the mental health of everyone involved; statistics have shown that 57% of South African children experience bullying during their school years. The consequences of this behaviour reach far beyond the immediate impact, as survivors often carry emotional scars into adulthood.”

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The pageant prides itself on being “a leading voice on female empowerment and a launchpad for much-needed social change”.

José’s alleged victim took to social media, alleging Miss SA has chosen a finalist who is the opposite. The Twitter user explained, in a chain of tweets, the events of her encounters with José.  She alleged that the bullying by José and her friends began in 2017. The victim said she and her friend reported the bullying at school but nothing was ever done. Since the Twitter user broke her silence about the alleged bullying, other girls have come forward alleging José has also bullied them.

Miss SA 2020, Shudufhadzo Musida, partnered with the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) to help victims of bullying to take care of their mental health. On the basis of Musida’s work, another Tweet reads: “The Miss SA organisation needs to investigate these serious allegations and take necessary action, including qualifications. Many kids have committed suicide because of bullying. It will be 10 steps backwards to the five forward steps Musida has taken to have a bully José as Miss SA. A bully is not a victim. Stop with the victim mentality.”

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