The Miss South Africa (SA) Organisation has officially announced its Top 19 contestants for the 2026 competition, marking the next stage in the search for the country’s next Ambassador.
Unveiled by media personality Minnie Dlamini, the selection follows a rigorous judging process that narrowed down the field from the initial Top 24. The judging panel featured prominent figures including Miss SA 2020 Shudufhadzo Musida, Pandora Health Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr Aisha Pandor, and Business Engage CEO Colleen Larsen, with auditing conducted by PwC.
The majority of the Top 19 finalists represent Gauteng, alongside contestants from KwaZulu-Natal, the Eastern Cape, Western Cape, North West, Free State, and Mpumalanga province. Eastern Cape’s Sanelisiwe Diko secured the final spot in the group after winning the public vote as the fan favourite.
The contestants will now advance to develop their social impact projects through Empower Youth Africa (EYA), the organisation’s flagship platform focusing on youth development, education, and entrepreneurship.
Miss South Africa 2026 Top 19 Finalists:
Alia Khan Koumantarakis (KwaZulu-Natal)
Amogelang Bunu (Gauteng)
Bonolo Marang Motau (Gauteng)
Cwenga Koyana Kotu-Rammopo (Gauteng)
Ipeleng Pearl Madiba (North West)
Katlego Malebye (Gauteng)
Kaylan Matthews (Eastern Cape)
Kendra Norah Horne (Western Cape)
Lesego Khumo Nyathela (Gauteng)
Makhosazana Azana Masango (KwaZulu-Natal)
Modiegi Mashamaite (Gauteng)
Ndiwanga Muravha (Mpumalanga)
Palesa van Rooyen (Free State)
Sanelisiwe Diko (Eastern Cape – Public Vote Winner)
Simoné Nonhlanhla Tshituka (Gauteng)
Sunshine Dlangamandla (Gauteng)
Tebogo Palesa Molatlhegi (Gauteng)
Tiyani Makamu (Gauteng)
Zoalize Jansen van Rensburg (Gauteng)
–ChannelAfrica/Misssa
