It’s been a long and emotional journey for Kerishnie Naiker—South Africa’s beloved former beauty queen.

One year ago, her life was flipped upside down after what seemed like a simple sightseeing trip turned into a painful and life-altering experience.

Today, she’s opening up about the recovery, the lessons, and the perspective she’s gained since that shocking fall at Cape Point.

Reflecting on a Difficult Year

In a heartfelt Instagram post over the weekend, Kerishnie—who made history in 1997 as the first South African of Indian descent to win the Miss SA title—shared an emotional update marking one year since her freak accident.

The 51-year-old spoke about what she called a “year of intense rehabilitation,” after being temporarily wheelchair-bound due to serious injuries she sustained last May.

Alongside footage from her time in the hospital, she shared a powerful message:

“Adaptability is an art and an advantage.

The focus has not once been on the negligent, selfie-addicted tourist, but rather on being solution-driven and healing.”

How the Accident Happened

So what exactly went wrong that day at Cape Point? According to Kerishnie, it all happened in an instant.

She was descending a steep staircase near the lighthouse when a tourist, trying to take the perfect photo, unknowingly stepped backwards into her.

“I was accidentally tripped by a tourist while she was taking photographs,” Kerishnie explained.

“She walked backward into me, tripping me down two steps. She tried to get the lighthouse in focus and took one step too far.”

That misstep caused Kerishnie to fall and dislocate both ankles.

It was a severe injury that required not just immediate medical care but months of intense rehabilitation to help her walk again.

Life After the Fall

Though she has regained her mobility, Kerishnie revealed earlier this month that her recovery is still ongoing.

She mentioned that she currently has “28% sports ability” and continues to experience nerve damage in her toes.

While it’s not a complete return to her previous physical health, she’s been incredibly open about her healing journey.

A Wake-Up Call for Everyone

What stands out most in Kerishnie’s message isn’t anger or blame—it’s purpose.

She’s using her platform to spread awareness and encourage mindfulness, especially when it comes to how people interact with public spaces in the age of selfies and social media.

In her post, she urged her followers to think twice about how they capture memories:

Don’t take photos that put yourself or others at risk
Stay aware of your surroundings
Live in the moment instead of behind the camera lens
Be considerate and mindful of other people’s safety

She added a serious warning that too many people are getting injured—or even dying—while chasing that “perfect” photo.

“Too many are dying while taking selfies and recording reels, and others are getting injured and killed by their negligence,” she said.

What’s Next for Kerishnie?

Despite everything, Kerishnie remains hopeful and grounded.

Her story is one of resilience, and she continues to inspire those around her with honesty and grace.

Whether or not she makes a full recovery, it’s clear she’s gained something else just as valuable—a deeper connection to life, healing, and purpose.