Gauteng dominates Miss SA 2026 Top 19
The official Top 19 have been revealed, and Gauteng is leading the charge with 11 contestants in the running. Here is a full list of the semi-finalists leading the title.
The race to the Miss South Africa 2026 crown is officially underway. On Wednesday, the beauty pageant announced its Top 19, marking another exciting milestone in the journey towards crowning the next Miss South Africa.
The contestants were selected based on qualities including authenticity, strategic thinking and their ability to make a positive impact in their communities and beyond. Other qualities considered during the selection process included vision, resilience, influence, innovation, social impact and the ability to inspire others.
The judges involved in selecting the Top 19 were Dr Aisha Pandor, Miss South Africa 2020 Shudu Motsweni, and businesswoman Colin Laversen.
The Top 19 announcement was hosted by media personality Minnie Dlamini and broadcast on YouTube.
THE MISS SOUTH AFRICA 2026 TOP 19
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
Simoné Nonhlanhla Tshituka – Gauteng
Sunshine Dlangamandla – Gauteng
Tebogo Palesa Molatlhegi – Gauteng
Tiyani Makamu – Gauteng
Zoalize Jansen van Rensburg – Gauteng
Sanelisiwe Diko – Eastern Cape – Public Vote Winner
More about Gauteng's Miss SA 2026 hopefuls
Gauteng is strongly represented in this year’s Top 19, with contestants from Johannesburg, Pretoria, Springs and Bronkhorstspruit among those hoping to take home the coveted crown.
Amogelang Bunu
Johannesburg contestant Amogelang Bunu hails from Mapobane and is a speech therapist, audiologist, entrepreneur and part-time clinical educator at the University of the Witwatersrand. She champions child development through play and early screening.
Bonolo Marang Motau
Brand and marketing professional Bonolo Marang Motau is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration. She champions economic empowerment for young people, particularly those from underserved communities.
Cwenga Koyana Kotu-Rammopo
At 27, Cwenga Koyana Kotu-Rammopo, is passionate about preventing adolescent pregnancy and empowering adolescent parents through education and skills development.
Katlego Malebye
Pretoria contestant Katlego Malebye, a triple-degree graduate, is passionate about sustainable housing solutions. Her vision focuses on finding innovative and sustainable ways to address housing challenges while contributing to communities that can thrive.
Lesego Khumo Nyathela
Entrepreneur Lesego Khumo Nyathela is using her platform to champion healthcare awareness and organ donation.
Modiegi Mashamaite
Journalist Modiegi Mashamaite advocates for educational equity and greater opportunities for young people.
Simoné Nonhlanhla Tshituka
Johannesburg’s Simoné Nonhlanhla Tshituka is a senior actuarial science professional who advocates for mathematics education and greater access to STEM opportunities. Her passion is aimed at encouraging young people to explore careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
Sunshine Dlangamandla
Sunshine Dlangamandla from Springs is an architect and educator whose passion lies in identity and cultural education. Through her work, she hopes to contribute to greater understanding and appreciation of identity and culture.
Tebogo Palesa Molatlhegi
At 29, investments specialist Teboho Balisa Malakheli is passionate about youth mental wellness through creative expression.
Tiyani Makamu
Tiyani Makamu from Bronkhorstspruit is a communications professional and advocates for entrepreneurship and small-business development.
Zoalize Jansen van Rensburg
Zoalize Jansen van Rensburg, an author and entrepreneur, advocates for education and youth development.
The Miss South Africa 2026 crowning is expected to take place in October, although the official date has not yet been confirmed.
For the full list of Miss South Africa 2026 Top 19 nominees, see the official announcement.
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