You may recall the story of Miss SA 2025, Qhawekazi Mazaleni, who was crowned at the SunBet Arena in Pretoria. Now, the Miss South Africa Organisation has introduced the Top 24 contestants for Miss SA 2026.

According to the Miss South Africa Organisation, these young women embody the evolution of Miss South Africa as a platform dedicated to leadership, purpose, and meaningful impact. They are emerging leaders committed to driving positive change within their communities, the country, and across the African continent.

The contest is part of the Miss SA New Era, where finalists are challenged to demonstrate not only personal excellence or success, but also a commitment to serve, advocate, and nation-build through Empower Youth Africa (EYA), the organisation's social impact framework. Through EYA, finalists develop sustainable initiatives focused on five key pillars:

  • Access to Education
  • Social Entrepreneurship and Job Creation
  • Mental Health and Wellness
  • Access to Healthcare
  • Pan-African Collaboration

Alia Khan Koumantarakis, 21, from Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, is a filmmaker, director, producer, published author, and creative entrepreneur. Her work has taken her across the African continent, creating stories that showcase the diversity and complexity of the region.

Bonolo Marang Motau, 25, from Johannesburg, Gauteng, is a strategic brand and marketing professional, academic, and youth empowerment advocate. She has spoken on various platforms about the importance of education in empowering young people to create positive change in their communities.

Cwenga Koyana Kotu-Rammopo, 27, from Gauteng, is a social entrepreneur, digital storyteller, and Co-Founder and Managing Director of Talitha Together. Her organisation has created initiatives that promote education and entrepreneurship among young women in Africa.

Kendra Norah Horne, 29, from Hermanus in the Western Cape, is a sports scientist with qualifications in sport sciences, sport management, and biokinetics from top universities. Her work in sports science has focused on developing injury prevention strategies for African athletes.

Nongcebo Mngadi, 30, originally from Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, is a filmmaker, storyteller, and production professional. Her work has been featured in various South African productions, showcasing her talent as a screenwriter and director.

Ofentse Palesa Precious Motaung, 22, from Johannesburg, Gauteng, is a BA Law graduate, writer, and youth advocate. She has spoken on various platforms about the importance of education in empowering young people to create positive change in their communities.

These women, along with the other Top 24 finalists, will participate in various challenges and activities designed to test their leadership, entrepreneurial, and advocacy skills. The competition will culminate in the crown being given to one exceptional woman who embodies the spirit of Miss South Africa and the values of Empower Youth Africa.