Miss South Africa 2026 – meet your new queen!

Miss South Africa 2026 has been crowned, and she is Tiyani Makamu.

The 27-year-old communications professional and entrepreneur succeeds 2025 title-winner Qhawekazi Mazaleni.

MEET THE MISS SOUTH AFRICA WINNER

Tiyani Makamu was crowned Miss South Africa at a glittering finale at the Sandton Convention Centre, hosted by former pageant queen Jo-Ann Strauss and Lawrence Maleka.

Her first and second princesses are Cwenga Koyana Kotu-Rammopo and Lesego Khumo Nyathela, respectively.

Tiyani is a 27-year-old Group Digital Lead and Client Success Executive who has a degree in PR and Corporate Communications.

Her advocacy is centred on entrepreneurship and skills development, youth unemployment, and expanding access to education and knowledge.

The Top 5 also included rugby WAG Simone Tshituka and singer and model Makhosazana Azana Masango.

PRIZES

The 2026 Miss South Africa winner not only receives a crown and title, but also a R1 million cash prize and R500 000 in dedicated funding for her social-impact projects.

The First Princess receives a R250 000 cash award and a dedicated R150 000 Impact Fund, whilst the Second Princess gets a R150 000 cash award and a dedicated R100 000 Impact Fund.

The top three contestants will also receive executive development opportunities, mentorship, wellness support, access to regional and international leadership networks, and the opportunity to lead initiatives focused on education, entrepreneurship, health, and youth development.