Miss SA sets the record straight on ‘Burger King’ crown

Both Miss SA and Nungu Diamonds – the latter of which designed, crafted and sponsored the iconic Mowana crown – have set the record straight on its absence at the pageant finale on Saturday evening.

This comes as the competition has been inundated with criticism over a makeshift crown worn by 2026 winner Tiyani Makamu.

SOUTH AFRICANS SHOCKED BY ‘BURGER KING’ CROWN

On social media, many South Africans have criticised Miss SA for “ruining” Tiyani Makamu’s winning moment by presenting her with a makeshift crown and cape.

Instead of the traditional Mowana crown – created by Nungu Diamonds – the 27-year-old wore what critics have described as a gold-plated “Burger King” headpiece.

“You ruined this girl’s crowning moment”, commented one IG user under a post announcing Tiyani as the 2026 Miss SA winner. 

Another asked, “Was Spur or Burger King the sponsor of that crown?”, while a third commented: “Madlanga Commission come investigate THE CROWN!”.

Many have claimed that Tiyani appeared unhappy in images posted on the pageant’s social media platforms. Others noted that the pageant did not live up to standards it has previously set.

Fashion designer Juan William Aria, who has designed many gowns for the Miss SA pageant, commented: “Can the organisation do the right thing and change the crown and lose the cape?”

Singer Leanne Dlamini added: “Our new queen deserves better! This crown is not it!

Actress and media personality K Naomi posted: “I think the pageant should have been postponed to allow enough time for proper preparations. Considering the significance and prestige of the Miss South Africa title, certain things simply shouldn’t have been rushed or compromised”.

Activist and author Khaya Dlanga commented:  “Congratulations to the winner. Having said that, a lot needs to be done to make Miss SA regain its glory. It’s gone backwards in almost every way imaginable”

MISS SA EXPLAINS…

In a statement posted a day after the finale, Miss SA responded to criticism of both its crown and its production. 

The organisation explained that the crown worn by Tiyani was a “temporary” future.

It shared: “We wish to clarify that it was a temporary ceremonial crown, while preparations for the official Miss South Africa crown are being finalised”

The organisation called on designers to contribute towards the crown’s design.

“We believe this symbol of national pride should reflect the collective identity, aspirations and values of the people our reigning queen represents. By inviting public participation, we hope to foster a greater sense of inclusion and connection between Miss South Africa and the nation she serves”.

It also apologised for not informing the public of its plans.

“We acknowledge that this intention should have been communicated more clearly ahead of the finale. While we stand by the vision behind this decision, we accept that the lack of context created unnecessary uncertainty”.

NUNGU DIAMONDS SETS THE RECORD STRAIGHT

Meanwhile, Nungu Diamonds, the creators of Miss SA’s Mowana crown, have set the record straight on its absence.

In a statement, the bespoke fine jewellery and diamond manufacturing brand shared that Miss SA had not renewed its sponsorship agreement for the 2026 pageant.

However, it had offered the use of the crown to the pageant, in good faith, as negotiations continued.

However, Miss SA organisers decided against using the crown, which was inspired by a baobab tree.

The statement read: “Negotiations were conducted in good faith and continued into the final days before the finale; however, the parties were ultimately unable to reach a mutually beneficial agreement.

“Notwithstanding this impasse, and as a gesture of goodwill, Nungu Diamonds granted the Miss South Africa Organisation permission to use the Mowana Crown at the finale, on the clear understanding that sponsorship discussions would resume after the event. The decision not to use the Mowana Crown rested solely with the Miss South Africa Organisation. We respect that decision”.