The 68th edition of the Miss South Africa pageant is set to crown its next national icon on Saturday, 14 November 2026 at the Sandton Convention Centre. The high-profile event marks the culmination of months of rigorous preparation, public voting, and community-driven initiatives across the nation.
The journey to the crown
The official top 12 finalists were announced in late October, with each individual displaying extraordinary skills in communication, intellectual clarity, leadership potential, and deep-seated commitment to social change. Selected through multiple steps and a rigorous assessment process evaluating leadership potential, communication, purpose, and social impact, the finalists reflect a generation of South African women committed to shaping a stronger future for their communities and country.
The Top 12 finalists, listed alphabetically by first name, are:
Alia Khan Koumantarakis, Amogelang Bunu, Bonolo Marang Motau, Cwenga Koyana Kotu-Rammopo, Katlego Malebye, Lesego Khumo Nyathela, Makhosazana Azana Masango, Ndivanga Muravha, Palesa van Rooyen, Simone Nonhlanhla Tshituka, Tiyani Makamu and Zoalize Jansen Van Rensburg.
Outgoing 2025 queen Qhawekazi Mazaleni officially hands over the prestigious title and prepares the path for a new queen to step into the national spotlight.
A crowning moment
The Miss South Africa 2026 Finale brings together leaders from business, government, civil society, media, sport and the creative industries in a celebration of South African excellence, ambition and possibility.
With that, the judging panel balances brilliance, business leadership, and beauty pageant expertise, with former Public Protector Advocate Thuli Madonsela and President of the Association for the Advancement of Black Chartered Accountants (AWCA), Pumla Molope joining the panel. Alongside the two is Miss South Africa 2023, Natasha Vermaak (Joubert), who brings first-hand experience to the table, and medical doctor and popular media personality, Dr. Musa Mthombeni.
In celebrating South African culture, the entertainment lineup brings a vibrant mix of traditional and modern street culture, with the world-renowned Ndlovu Youth Choir providing vocal performances and a soulful collaboration from JAZZWRLD and Thukuthela. The energy continues with a high-energy Amapiano performance from Young Stunna and Hoodsenseii, as well as singer-songwriter Zee Nxumalo.
Beyond the reign
While only one finalist will be crowned Miss South Africa 2026, all twelve women will assume a broader role as ambassadors of Empower Youth Africa (EYA), the impact platform at the centre of the Miss South Africa organisation. EYA works to transform influence into measurable impact, connecting young people to opportunities, skills, networks and resources that unlock potential and expand access to a brighter future.
Through EYA, each finalist contributes to programmes and partnerships that expand access to opportunity for young people across South Africa. The platform focuses on five strategic pillars:
- Technology & Digital Inclusion
- Entrepreneurship & Enterprise Development
- Education & Skills for the Future
- Health & Wellness
- Civic Leadership & Pan-African Collaboration
Guided by this year’s theme, ‘Imbokodo’, the finalists represent resilience, determination and the belief that leadership is measured not only by achievement but by the value created for others.
How to book
Cost: From R450pp | From R1600pp (VIP) | From R2000pp (VVIP). Book via Ticketpro.
When: Saturday 14 November. The red carpet opens at 4pm. The doors to the finale arena open at 7pm.
Where: Sandton Convention Centre, 161 Maude St, Sandown, Sandton
Website: misssa.co.za
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: @MissSouthAfricaOfficial
Instagram: @official_misssa
