Miss South Africa 2026: Top 24 Finalists Announced!

by | Jun 22, 2026 | Press Release | 0 comments

The Miss South Africa Organisation is proud to introduce the Top 24 finalists selected to continue their journey in the Miss South Africa 2026 competition. Twenty-four young women from across South Africa have been selected to advance in a competition that celebrates leadership, purpose, and a commitment to creating meaningful impact.

Representing diverse backgrounds, professions, experiences, and perspectives, the Top 24 embody the evolution of Miss South Africa as a platform dedicated to leadership, purpose, and meaningful impact. More than contestants, these young women are emerging leaders committed to driving positive change within their communities, the country, and across the African continent.

The New Era & Social Impact Framework

As part of the Miss South Africa New Era, finalists are challenged to demonstrate not only personal excellence or success, but also a commitment to serve, advocate, and nation-build through Empower Youth Africa (EYA), the organisation’s social impact frameworkMiss South Africa New EraEmpower Youth Africa (EYA).

Through EYA, finalists are encouraged to develop sustainable initiatives focused on five key pillars that continue to shape the future of young people in South Africa and Africa:

  • Access to Education
  • Social Entrepreneurship and Job Creation
  • Mental Health and Wellness
  • Access to Healthcare
  • Pan-African Collaboration

A Note on Selection:A Note on Selection: The Top 28 have been selected following a rigorous evaluation process that considered leadership potential, communication skills, personal achievements (growth), community involvement, and their vision for creating meaningful impact. With more than a thousand entries received this year, the Top 28 finalists represent the pinnacle of that ambition and the determination to make a meaningful difference.

Over the coming months, the finalists will participate in a series of leadership engagements, development programmes, mentorship opportunities, and social impact initiatives designed to prepare them for the next phase of the competition. These experiences will provide them with opportunities to engage with communities, deepen their understanding of South Africa’s social landscape, and further develop the skills required of a modern Miss South Africa.

A Message from Leadership

Patron and Chairperson of the Miss South Africa Organisation, Dr Precious Moloi-Motsepe, saidDr Precious Moloi-Motsepe:

“The Miss South Africa Organisation is steadfast in its mission to empower young women to lead with courage, authenticity and purpose. This year’s entrants confirmed that South Africa is home to an extraordinary generation of fearless young leaders who are committed to driving meaningful change within their communities and beyond.

They embody the qualities of a new generation of leaders who are prepared to use their voices, skills and expertise to create lasting impact and contribute to a better future for South Africa and the African continent. We look forward to supporting and developing these remarkable young women as they continue their Miss South Africa journey and further define what leadership, service and purpose look like in the Miss South Africa New Era.”

Meet the Top 24 Finalists

Included in this announcement are individual finalist profiles, highlighting each finalist’s educational background, professional experience, leadership journey, volunteer work, and the causes they are passionate about advancing through the Empower Youth Africa framework.

As the competition progresses, South Africans will have the opportunity to get to know the finalists and follow their journeys as they compete for a place in the Miss South Africa 2026 Top 12 and ultimately for the role and responsibility of being Miss South Africa.

1. Alia Khan Koumantarakis (21) from Durban, KwaZulu-Natal

Filmmaker and Author Advocates for Literacy and Creative Empowerment

  • Background:Background: Alia is a filmmaker, director, producer, published author, and creative entrepreneur. She is an AFDA Cape Town graduate who completed her Bachelor of Arts in Motion Picture cum laude and is the founder of Stalia Productions, where she develops African storiescum laude.
  • Achievements:Achievements: Her achievements include publishing her debut novel, RIOT, receiving a scholarship from the New York Film Academy, and being recognised as IMTA Overall Female Talent and Most Sought After TalentRIOT.
  • EYA Advocacy:EYA Advocacy: Through the EYA framework, Alia’s advocacy focuses on literacy, education, skills development, and creative empowerment. Inspired by her own experience of overcoming dyslexia, she is passionate about helping young people discover the confidence that comes through reading, writing, and storytelling.
  • Vision & Initiative:Vision & Initiative: Her initiative aims to create national writing competitions, expand access to books and technology in underserved schools, and connect aspiring writers with mentorship and opportunities within the creative industries. Through her advocacy, she hopes to build a national storytelling movement that nurtures young African voices, improves literacy outcomes, and creates pathways into publishing, film, and other creative industries.

2. Amogelang Bunu (27) from Mabopane, Gauteng

Audiologist and Speech Therapist Champions Child Development Through Play and Early Screening

  • Background:Background: Amogelang is a Speech Therapist, Audiologist, entrepreneur, and part-time clinical educator at the University of the Witwatersrand. She holds a Bachelor in Speech Language Pathology and Audiology and a Master in Audiology from Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University. She is also the founder of Bunu Speech Therapy and Audiology, a private practice dedicated to improving access to communication and hearing healthcare.
  • Achievements:Achievements: She is a former Junior World Karate Champion, combining her experience as a clinician and athlete to drive community impact.
  • EYA Advocacy:EYA Advocacy: Through the EYA framework, Amogelang’s advocacy initiative, Communication, Access and Safety Through Playground, focuses on child development, communication health, and access to safe play spacesCommunication, Access and Safety Through Playground. She advocates for the integration of sport infrastructure and mandatory communication and hearing screenings in schools, believing that play and physical activity are essential for children’s cognitive, social, and emotional development.
  • Vision & Initiative:Vision & Initiative: Through workshops, digital education platforms, and community outreach initiatives, she raises awareness about hearing health, communication development, and early screening. Her vision is to improve developmental outcomes for children by creating environments that support learning, communication, wellbeing, and inclusion.

3. Bonolo Marang Motau (25) from Johannesburg, Gauteng

Brand and Marketing Professional Advocates for Educational Access and Digital Inclusion

  • Background:Background: Bonolo is a strategic brand and marketing professional, academic, and youth empowerment advocate. She works in commercial strategy within the fast-moving consumer goods sector, with experience spanning brand management, media, marketing, and business leadership.
  • Achievements:Achievements: A three-time graduate of the University of the Witwatersrand, she holds a Bachelor of Commerce, Bachelor of Commerce Honours, and Master of Commerce degree, and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration.
  • EYA Advocacy:EYA Advocacy: Through the EYA framework, Bonolo’s advocacy focuses on educational access, digital inclusion, and youth empowerment. She is passionate about ensuring that young people, particularly those from underserved communities, have access to the tools, information, and opportunities needed to pursue higher education and meaningful careers.
  • Vision & Initiative:Vision & Initiative: She aims to establish community-based Smart Education Hubs that provide support with university applications, bursary funding access, digital literacy training, career guidance, and literacy development. Through her advocacy, she hopes to create sustainable pathways to academic and economic empowerment, ensuring that opportunity remains accessible to young South Africans regardless of their circumstances.

4. Cwenga Koyana Kotu-Rammopo (27) from Gauteng

Social Entrepreneur Advocates for Adolescent Parent Empowerment and Education Access

  • Background:Background: Cwenga is a social entrepreneur, digital storyteller, and Co-Founder and Managing Director of Talitha Together. Holding degrees in Theatre and Performing Arts, Film and Television, and a Master’s degree in Digital Curation from the University of Cape Town, she is passionate about youth empowerment, education, and creating opportunities for vulnerable young people across Africa.
  • Achievements:Achievements: Since founding Talitha Together in 2021, Cwenga has helped empower more than 3,500 pregnant girls, adolescent mothers and their children across Southern Africa, while providing pregnancy prevention education to over 20,000 learners. She is a recipient of numerous leadership and entrepreneurship awards, including the UNESCO and Women@Dior Dream For Change Project Award for Africa.
  • EYA Advocacy:EYA Advocacy: Through the EYA framework, Cwenga’s advocacy focuses on adolescent pregnancy prevention and empowering adolescent parents through education and skills development. She aims to address the barriers that often exclude young parents from educational and economic opportunities, while promoting access to future-ready skills, entrepreneurship, and digital inclusion.
  • Vision & Initiative:Vision & Initiative: She hopes to create a future where no young person is excluded from opportunity because of their circumstances.

5. Gift Ntimani (24) from Atteridgeville in Gauteng

Aviation Entrepreneur Advances Education, Employment and Opportunity

  • Background:Background: Gift is a qualified Remote Pilot with a Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) rating, a Private Pilot student, and the founder of Kasi to the World, an initiative that introduces young people from underserved communities to opportunities within the aviation industryKasi to the World. She pursued a career in aviation despite significant financial challenges and is currently completing her Private Pilot Licence and crop-spraying certification.
  • EYA Advocacy:EYA Advocacy: Her advocacy aligns with the EYA framework, focusing on youth unemployment through education, skills development, and entrepreneurship.
  • Vision & Initiative:Vision & Initiative: She is also an active member of Dipeu Tsa Tshwane, a youth development organisation where she facilitates girls’ empowerment discussions and supports sanitary pad donation initiatives for learners in need.

6. Ipeleng Pearl Madiba (23) from Rustenburg in the North West

Archaeologist Champions African Identity and Heritage Education

  • Background:Background: Ipeleng is a qualified archaeologist and Honours student in Archaeology at the University of the Witwatersrand. Having completed a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Archaeology, she is passionate about African history, heritage, and identity, and believes that understanding the past is essential to shaping a confident and empowered future.
  • Achievements:Achievements: Despite overcoming financial challenges and navigating depression and anxiety during her studies, Ipeleng excelled academically, earning merit awards, Golden Key membership, and recognition as one of the Top 10 matriculants at her high school.
  • EYA Advocacy:EYA Advocacy: Through the EYA framework, Ipeleng’s advocacy focuses on Pan-African Collaboration, cultural identity, and heritage education. She aims to address identity disconnection among young South Africans by creating opportunities for greater engagement with African history, culture, and traditions.
  • Vision & Initiative:Vision & Initiative: Her vision is to work with schools and community organisations to make heritage education more accessible and inspire pride in African identity. She hopes to inspire a generation of young Africans who are grounded in their identity, proud of their heritage, and committed to building stronger communities across the continent.

7. Katlego Malebye (31) from Pretoria, Gauteng

Candidate Architect Advocates for Affordable Housing and Youth Opportunities

  • Background:Background: Katlego is a Candidate Architect passionate about creating sustainable housing solutions and expanding opportunities for young people within the built environment. A triple-degree graduate, she holds a Bachelor of Science in Architecture, a Bachelor of Architecture (Honours), and a Master of Architecture qualification, and is currently completing her practical training towards professional registration with the South African Council for the Architectural Profession (SACAP).
  • Achievements:Achievements: Kat’s academic achievements earned her recognition among the top 15% of students and induction into the Golden Key International Honour Society.
  • EYA Advocacy:EYA Advocacy: Through the EYA framework, Kat’s advocacy initiative, Build for Change, focuses on affordable housing, youth unemployment, and increasing opportunities for women in STEM-related fieldsBuild for Change. Inspired by her work on an RDP housing audit project in the Eastern Cape, she aims to address the link between housing, dignity, and access to opportunity by creating pathways for young people, particularly young women, within the built environment and infrastructure sectors.
  • Vision & Initiative:Vision & Initiative: Through Build for Change, she hopes to establish mentorship programmes, industry partnerships, and skills development opportunities that contribute to employment creation, improved living conditions, and greater representation of women within the built environment sectorBuild for Change.

8. Kaylan Matthews (30) from Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape

Fitness Coach Advocates for Mental Wellness Through Movement

  • Background:Background: Kaylan is a women’s fitness coach, entrepreneur, and founder of Coach KayCoach Kay. She is a Human Movement Science graduate from Nelson Mandela University and has built a successful coaching business focused on helping women improve their physical and mental wellbeing through sustainable fitness and healthy lifestyle practices.
  • EYA Advocacy:EYA Advocacy: Through the EYA framework, Kaylan’s advocacy focuses on Health and Wellness. Her #StandStrongSA initiative aims to encourage young South Africans to use daily movement as a tool to improve mental health, manage stress, and build resilience#StandStrongSA. She believes physical wellbeing forms the foundation for success in education, employment, and leadership.
  • Vision & Initiative:Vision & Initiative: Kaylan has worked with leading South African consumer brands, while also providing free and low-cost fitness sessions for women who may not otherwise have access to professional coaching. Through her advocacy, she hopes to inspire a generation of healthier, stronger, and more resilient young South Africans.

9. Kendra Norah Horne (29) from Hermanus in the Western Cape

Sports Scientist Advocates for Mental Health and Community Wellness

  • Background:Background: Kendra is a sports scientist with qualifications in sport sciences, sport management, and biokinetics from Stellenbosch University, the University of the Western Cape, and Université Paris-Saclay in France. Passionate about health, wellness, and community development, she has dedicated her studies and career to understanding the role movement plays in improving quality of life.
  • Achievements:Achievements: In April 2026, she completed her Master’s degree in Sport, Leisure and Event Management.
  • EYA Advocacy:EYA Advocacy: Through the EYA framework, Kendra’s advocacy focuses on mental health, wellness, and creating opportunities for women and children in under-resourced communities. She believes physical activity plays a vital role in improving mental well-being and hopes to develop accessible programmes that provide structured health and wellness support for young people.
  • Vision & Initiative:Vision & Initiative: Kendra has served as a director of Inkuthazo Yesizwe Youth Organisation and is a co-founder of Grow The Youth Organisation. Through these initiatives, she has facilitated coaching workshops, weekly sport and exercise programmes, and supported families with school supplies and other essential resources. She hopes to use her platform to encourage young South Africans to prioritise their mental and physical well-being while becoming active participants in creating positive change within their communities.

10. Lesego Khumo Nyathela (30) from Springs, Gauteng

Entrepreneur and Advocate Champions Healthcare Awareness and Organ Donation

  • Background:Background: Lesego is a model, entrepreneur, and healthcare advocate with a passion for improving healthcare awareness among young people. A cum laude Business Management graduate from Boston City Campus, she combines entrepreneurship, advocacy, and public engagement to drive conversations around health equity, chronic illness education, and organ donation awarenesscum laude.
  • EYA Advocacy:EYA Advocacy: Through the EYA framework, Lesego’s advocacy focuses on the Health and Wellness pillar. Inspired by her family’s experience with chronic illness, she is committed to increasing awareness around organ donation, preventative healthcare, and early diagnosis.
  • Vision & Initiative:Vision & Initiative: Lesego has established a healthcare advocacy platform focused on healthcare equity, chronic illness education, and organ donation awareness. She also volunteers with Act Africa in initiatives addressing gender-based violence and regularly mentors young people on career development and entrepreneurship. Her long-term vision is to build sustainable programmes that empower young people with access to health information and contribute to broader conversations around equitable healthcare across Africa.

11. Makhosazana Azana Masango (25) from Ndwedwe, KwaZulu-Natal

Musician Advocates for Educational Access and Youth Development

  • Background:Background: Makhosazana (Azana) is a musician, model, and philanthropist currently pursuing an LLB through UNISA. Best known for her chart-topping music career and through her work as an artist, she aims to inspire hope, healing, and positive change while using her platform to uplift communities.
  • EYA Advocacy:EYA Advocacy: Through the EYA framework, Azana’s advocacy focuses on Access to Education and Knowledge. Inspired by her work at Phuzulwazi Secondary School and her experiences in underserved communities, she advocates for improved educational resources, including libraries, laboratories, learning facilities, and essential school infrastructure. She believes access to quality educational tools is critical to unlocking young people’s potential.
  • Vision & Initiative:Vision & Initiative: Azana currently runs a school choir programme and mentors aspiring young artists by providing access to safe, fully funded studio opportunities. Through her advocacy, she hopes to help create learning environments where young people have the resources, opportunities, and support needed to thrive and reach their full potential.

12. Modiegi Mashamaite (27) from Gauteng

Journalist Advocates for Educational Equity and Youth Opportunity

  • Background:Background: Modiegi is a journalist and News Reporter. She is a graduate of Rhodes University with a Bachelor of Journalism and Media Studies, passionate about storytelling, youth development, and creating opportunities for young people.
  • EYA Advocacy:EYA Advocacy: Through the EYA framework, Modiegi’s advocacy focuses on Access to Education, Entrepreneurship, and Skills Development. Inspired by her own experiences, she aims to bridge the gap between under-resourced and well-resourced schools by improving access to educational resources, mentorship, and career guidance, ensuring that young people’s futures are not determined by their circumstances.
  • Vision & Initiative:Vision & Initiative: Modiegi founded a Career Expo initiative that connects learners from underserved communities with professionals and career opportunities. She also supports educational and community upliftment projects through school donations and partnerships with local NGOs. Through her advocacy, she hopes to help create a South Africa where every child has equal access to opportunity, regardless of their background.

13. Ndiwanga Muravha (22) from Mbombela, Mpumalanga

Agriculture Student and Youth Development Advocate Drives Digital Skills and Entrepreneurship

  • Background:Background: Ndiwanga is a youth development advocate, entrepreneur, and Master’s student in Agriculture at the University of Mpumalanga. She works in Project Management at Charged Up Entrepreneurship Africa Network, which promotes entrepreneurship, innovation, and business development across the continent. Passionate about youth empowerment, she founded Crimson Creative, an initiative focused on equipping young people with digital skills, mentorship, and future-focused opportunitiesCrimson Creative.
  • Achievements:Achievements: Her achievements include representing South Africa on an Entrepreneurship Study Tour to Ireland through THENSA in 2025 and participating in the South Africa-Germany Connect & Act Youth Exchange Programme in 2024. She was also crowned Miss UMP 2022/23 and received the UMP Arts and Culture Performer of the Year Award in 2022.
  • EYA Advocacy:EYA Advocacy: Through the EYA framework, Ndiwanga’s advocacy focuses on youth unemployment, access to education, and entrepreneurship. Through Crimson Creative, she aims to bridge the digital divide by providing young people with digital skills, mentorship, and access to opportunities that improve employability and support entrepreneurshipCrimson Creative.
  • Vision & Initiative:Vision & Initiative: Her community involvement includes youth mentorship, entrepreneurship programmes, clothing donation drives, and free digital skills webinars designed to empower young people across South Africa. Her long-term vision is to establish Crimson Creative as a leading African hub for digital skills development, innovation, and business creationCrimson Creative.

14. Nongcebo Mngadi (30) originally from Durban, KwaZulu-Natal

Filmmaker Advocates for Women’s Health and Creative Economy Opportunities

  • Background:Background: Nongcebo is a filmmaker, storyteller, and production professional. An AFDA graduate who specialised in Screenwriting and Directing, she has worked on a number of South African productions. Passionate about the power of storytelling, she believes the arts can be a catalyst for awareness, dialogue, and meaningful social change.
  • EYA Advocacy:EYA Advocacy: Through the EYA framework, Nongcebo’s advocacy programme, Canvas & Core, focuses on Health and Wellness, Youth Unemployment, and Civic Engagement and Pan-African CollaborationCanvas & Core. Drawing from her own experience living with Stage 2 endometriosis, she is passionate about improving access to health information and support for young women, while also creating sustainable opportunities for young people within the creative industries.
  • Vision & Initiative:Vision & Initiative: Nongcebo’s community involvement includes mentoring young women as well as supporting NGO-led outreach initiatives focused on food relief and homelessness. Through her work and advocacy, she hopes to use storytelling and the arts to empower communities, promote awareness, and create opportunities for the next generation of African creatives.

15. Ofentse Palesa Precious Motaung (22) from Johannesburg, Gauteng

Writer and Youth Advocate Champions Creative Empowerment and Mental Wellness

  • Background:Background: Ofentse is a BA Law graduate, writer, and youth advocate. A volunteer librarian and educational assistant at Impala Crescent Primary School, she is passionate about literature, education, and community development. Through reading programmes and learner support initiatives, she helps nurture young minds while encouraging a culture of learning and self-expression.
  • EYA Advocacy:EYA Advocacy: Through the EYA framework, Ofentse’s advocacy focuses on youth unemployment, entrepreneurship, skills development, and mental wellness. She aims to transform artistic expression into economic opportunity by creating platforms that equip young people with creative and entrepreneurial skills while fostering cultural exchange and collaboration.
  • Vision & Initiative:Vision & Initiative: Ofentse is a stakeholder in The Suicide Prevention Squad, an organisation that raises awareness around youth mental health through music, dialogue, and community engagementThe Suicide Prevention Squad. Through her advocacy, she hopes to create safe, creative spaces that empower young people to express themselves, build confidence, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.

16. Palesa van Rooyen (27) from Hobhouse in the Free State

Medical Doctor Champions Child Safety, Nutrition and Early Childhood Development

  • Background:Background: Palesa is a medical doctor and children’s advocate who holds a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery degree from Stellenbosch University. Passionate about child health, protection, and development, she hopes to specialise in Paediatrics while expanding her work into child rights advocacy and community-based healthcare initiatives.
  • EYA Advocacy:EYA Advocacy: Through the EYA framework, Palesa’s advocacy focuses on child safety, nutrition, and quality early childhood development. She aims to strengthen awareness, caregiver education, and community-based support systems that protect children and promote their wellbeing, particularly in underserved communities.
  • Vision & Initiative:Vision & Initiative: Palesa has supported initiatives including the Impilo Project, Marotholi Outreach, and Hlokomela Bana, which focus on child nutrition, healthcare, and support for children with disabilities. Through her advocacy, she hopes to contribute to a future where every child feels seen, safe, and empowered to reach their full potential.

17. Sanelisiwe Diko (26) from the Eastern Cape

Pharmacist Advocates for Healthcare Access and Health Literacy

  • Background:Background: Sanelisiwe is a qualified pharmacist who obtained her Bachelor of Pharmacy degree from Rhodes University. Passionate about improving healthcare outcomes, she has worked across community healthcare initiatives and believes that access to healthcare and reliable health information are essential to improving quality of life.
  • EYA Advocacy:EYA Advocacy: Through the EYA framework, Sanelisiwe’s advocacy focuses on healthcare access and health literacy, particularly for young people and underserved communities. She aims to educate young South Africans about preventative healthcare, chronic disease management, and informed health decision-making, while advocating for improved access to healthcare services in rural and marginalised communities.
  • Vision & Initiative:Vision & Initiative: Sanelisiwe has contributed to healthcare outreach initiatives including the Phelophepa Train, Isibhedlele Kubantu, and Budding Q programmes, which focus on healthcare access and literacy development. Through her advocacy, she hopes to empower young people to take control of their health, reduce preventable illnesses, and improve long-term health outcomes in communities across South Africa.

18. Sibahle Ngwenya (28) from KwaZulu-Natal

Machine Learning Engineer Advocates for AI Education and Mental Health Awareness

  • Background:Background: Sibahle is a machine learning research engineer whose work spans engineering, artificial intelligence, and mental health innovation. She holds a BSc (Hons) in Metallurgy and Materials Engineering from the University of the Witwatersrand and a Master of Engineering in Industrial Engineering from Stellenbosch University. She is currently pursuing research in computational psychiatry, with a focus on expanding access to mental health support through technology.
  • EYA Advocacy:EYA Advocacy: Through the EYA framework, Sibahle’s advocacy focuses on mental health awareness, digital literacy, and increasing female participation in technology. Her initiative combines AI education with mental wellness support, equipping young women with future-focused digital skills while creating safe spaces for conversations around mental health. She hopes to empower girls to become active creators of technology rather than passive consumers.
  • Vision & Initiative:Vision & Initiative: Sibahle has led machine learning research projects in the metallurgical sector, developed AI optimisation systems for international operations, partnered with SiyaTutor to expand digital educational access, and mentored young women through Girleada. Through her advocacy, she hopes to create sustainable pathways into technology for young women while improving access to mental health resources in underserved communities.

19. Simoné Nonhlanhla Tshituka (26) originally from Johannesburg in Gauteng

Actuarial Science Professional Advocates for Mathematics Education and STEM Access

  • Background:Background: Simoné is a Senior Actuarial Associate and Actuarial Science graduate from the University of the Witwatersrand. Having completed a BSc Honours in Actuarial Science and currently pursuing professional qualification through the Actuarial Society of South Africa, she is passionate about education, problem-solving, and expanding access to STEM opportunities for young people.
  • EYA Advocacy:EYA Advocacy: Through the EYA framework, Simoné’s advocacy focuses on improving foundational mathematics education in underserved communities. Inspired by her own academic journey and the underrepresentation of Black women in actuarial science, she aims to build mathematical confidence, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills while increasing access to educational resources, mentorship, and STEM career pathways.
  • Vision & Initiative:Vision & Initiative: Simoné has participated in educational outreach, mentorship, and community initiatives, including supporting learners interested in actuarial science and other STEM careers. Through her advocacy, she hopes to help create a future where more young South Africans, particularly young women, can confidently pursue opportunities in mathematics, science, and technology.

20. Sunshine Dlangamandla (29) from Springs, Gauteng

Architect and Educator Champions African Identity and Cultural Education

  • Background:Background: Sunshine is a Master of Architecture graduate, Design Architect, Assistant Lecturer, and Researcher at the University of Johannesburg. Passionate about education, storytelling, and African identity, she combines architecture, design, and research to create projects that promote cultural awareness and social impact.
  • EYA Advocacy:EYA Advocacy: Through the EYA framework, Sunshine’s advocacy focuses on Civic Engagement and Pan-African Collaboration. She is particularly passionate about increasing access to educational content that reflects African histories, cultures, and identities.
  • Vision & Initiative:Vision & Initiative: To support this vision, she developed a Pan-African colouring book initiative that combines art, storytelling, and decolonial education to help African children see themselves represented in history and culture. Having travelled extensively across Africa, Europe, Asia, and Australia, Sunshine is passionate about cultural exchange and believes it plays an important role in education, identity, and social development. Through her work, she hopes to inspire young Africans to embrace their heritage, broaden their perspectives, and contribute meaningfully to the continent’s future.

21. Tebogo Palesa Molatlhegi (29) from Gauteng

Investments Specialist Advocates for Youth Mental Wellness Through Creative Expression

  • Background:Background: Tebogo is an investments specialist and financial sector marketer. She holds a Bachelor of Commerce in Economics and Management and a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Analysis from Rhodes University. Passionate about personal development, creativity, and community impact, Tebogo is the founder of Boss Queen: I Am Excellent, a platform dedicated to empowering women to build confidence and pursue excellence in every area of their livesBoss Queen: I Am Excellent.
  • EYA Advocacy:EYA Advocacy: Through the EYA framework, Tebogo’s advocacy focuses on Mental Health and Wellness, as well as Entrepreneurship and Skills Development. Believing that art, dance, and writing are powerful tools for healing and self-expression, she aims to partner with schools, mental health organisations, and arts-focused NGOs to create safe spaces where young people can process challenges, build confidence, and develop creative skills that can be transformed into sustainable opportunities.
  • Vision & Initiative:Vision & Initiative: Tebogo is a member of the Uyinene Mrwetyana Foundation Youth Advisory Board, leads her church’s Street Store initiative supporting vulnerable communities, facilitates weekly dance classes for children, and serves as a church ministry leader. Through her advocacy, she hopes to build a future where creative expression is recognised as both a tool for wellbeing and empowerment, helping young people reclaim their voices and realise their full potential.

22. Tiyani Makamu (27) from Bronkhorstspruit, Gauteng

Communications Professional Advocates for Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development

  • Background:Background: Tiyani is a communications professional, entrepreneur, and youth advocate. A graduate of Pearson Institute of Higher Education, she currently serves as a Group Digital Lead and Client Success Executive. She is also the founder of Hubsela, a platform dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs and helping small businesses grow sustainablyHubsela.
  • EYA Advocacy:EYA Advocacy: Through the EYA framework, Tiyani’s advocacy focuses on Entrepreneurship and Skills Development, Youth Unemployment, and Access to Education and Knowledge. She is passionate about equipping entrepreneurs with the tools, systems, and support needed to build sustainable businesses, believing that entrepreneurship is a powerful driver of economic empowerment, job creation, and community development.
  • Vision & Initiative:Vision & Initiative: Tiyani has served on the board of the Mfudumalo Foundation, where she contributed to initiatives that supported thousands of families and established a community library in Ivory Park. Through her advocacy and entrepreneurial work, she hopes to help more young people become funding-ready, build successful businesses, and create opportunities within their communities.

23. Unami Mthethwa (24) from KwaZulu-Natal

Content Creator Advocates for Young Women’s Leadership and Entrepreneurship

  • Background:Background: Unami is a content creator, marketer, and media professional. A Bachelor of Arts graduate in Communication and Media from the University of Johannesburg, she has built a career in digital media, branding, and content creation, collaborating with leading local and international brands while using storytelling to connect with diverse audiences.
  • Achievements:Achievements: Unami’s achievements include representing South Africa as a gymnast and winning a gold medal, establishing her own business, and working as a television presenter.
  • EYA Advocacy:EYA Advocacy: Through the EYA framework, Unami’s advocacy focuses on youth unemployment, entrepreneurship, and leadership development for young women. She aims to equip young women with the skills, confidence, and networks needed to build sustainable businesses and create opportunities within their communities.
  • Vision & Initiative:Vision & Initiative: She has volunteered at ABBA House orphanage and supported community initiatives through food, clothing, and youth-focused creative workshops. Through her advocacy, she hopes to empower more young women to become confident leaders, entrepreneurs, and job creators.

24. Zoalize Jansen Van Rensburg (20) from Gauteng

Author, Entrepreneur and Youth Advocate Champions Education and Youth Development

  • Background:Background: Zoalize is an entrepreneur, author, and youth advocate currently pursuing a Bachelor of Laws degree through the Open University of London. She is the co-founder of Emberman Official, a fashion company focused on creating bespoke garments through locally and ethically sourced manufacturingEmberman Official. A published children’s book author and founder of Never Too Young To Advocate, Zoalize is passionate about empowering young people through education, creativity, and leadership developmentNever Too Young To Advocate.
  • Achievements:Achievements: Zoalize’s achievements include publishing an educational children’s book, speaking at the United Nations International Social Justice Conference in 2024, being nominated for the Women of Stature Award, and leading Never Too Young To Advocate for more than five yearsNever Too Young To Advocate.
  • EYA Advocacy:EYA Advocacy: Through the EYA framework, Zoalize’s advocacy focuses on education, youth development, and creating opportunities for young people to realise their full potential. Inspired by her own educational journey, she believes meaningful education extends beyond traditional academics and should nurture creativity, critical thinking, and innovation.
  • Vision & Initiative:Vision & Initiative: She serves as an ambassador for the Smile Foundation, Arms of Mercy, and MiDesk Global. Through her advocacy, she hopes to inspire a generation of young South Africans who understand that education is a powerful tool for change and that their circumstances should never define the limits of their dreams.

Media & Enquiries

For more information, finalist profiles, and media enquiries, please contact the Miss South Africa Organisation.