‘Zoalize was robbed’ – Miss SA pageant fans

Not for the first time, pageant fans are crying foul that a favourite – Zoalize Janse van Rensburg – was knocked out of the running to become Miss South Africa.

The beauty queen failed to make the Top 5, despite being a top contender and having international pageant experience.

Tiyani Makamu was crowned the winner at a glittering finale at the Sandton Convention Centre.

‘ZOALIZE WAS ROBBED’

On social media, pageant fans have expressed their shock and disappointment that Zoalize Janse van Rensburg did not make it to the Miss South Africa Top 5. Some have even accused the pageant organisers of “robbing” the 20-year-old law student of the crown.

“Zoalize… she embodies and represents the Miss SA brand so well. She IS the definition of Miss SA. This is robbery!”, commented one fan under the official pageant account.

Another wrote: “Zoalize deserved soooo much more! I can’t believe y’all robbed our girl”

Zoalize was robbed I’m so mad on her behalf

— Lú. 🇨🇩🇵🇸 (@_uluyanda) November 14, 2026

Ultimately, the Top 5 was named – Tiyani Makamu, Cwenga Koyana Kotu-Rammopo, Lesego Khumo Nyathela, Makhosazana Azana Masango and Simoné Nonhlanhla Tshituka.

Tiyani was named Miss South Africa 2026 whilst Cwenga and Lesego were crowned first and second princesses, respectively.

PAGEANT HISTORY

Zoalize van Rensburg was tipped as a favourite to win the Miss South Africa crown as she was a familiar face in the pageant world.

In 2023, she placed as first princess at the Miss World South Africa finale, and a year later re-entered and won the crown.

Last year, she represented South Africa at Miss World in India. Although she failed to make the Top 40, she won the Best Designer Dress award for Africa.

This year, Zoalize – a law student and published children’s book author – entered Miss South Africa for the first time. At just 20 years old, she had a strong fan base and an even stronger advocacy campaign – Her Never Too Young to Advocate initiative focuses on youth empowerment, education and giving young people a voice. 

She has also used her platform to speak at the 2024 United Nations International Social Justice Conference.