The Miss South Africa organisation has come under fire for the crown worn by Tiyani Makamu, the 27-year-old digital marketing entrepreneur from Bronkhorstspruit, who was crowned Miss SA 2026 on Saturday night at the Sandton Convention Centre. The crown was criticised for looking homemade, sparking public outcry. In response, the Miss South Africa organisers released a statement on Sunday afternoon, clarifying that the crown was temporary and that preparations for the official crown are underway.
The organisers invited public participation in unveiling the official crown, reflecting “national pride” for the winner. They stated that the intention is to give South Africans an opportunity to participate in the journey towards unveiling the official crown, which should reflect the collective identity, aspirations and values of the people the reigning queen represents. This move aims to foster a greater sense of inclusion and connection between Miss South Africa and the nation she serves.
The Miss South Africa organisation acknowledged that the intention behind the temporary crown should have been communicated more clearly ahead of the finale, and accepted that the lack of context created unnecessary uncertainty. The crown worn by Makamu was not designed by Nungu Diamonds, the fine jewellery house that designed the Mowana crown worn by previous winners. Nungu Diamonds released a statement distancing themselves from Makamu’s 2026 crown, citing that their sponsorship agreement with the Miss South Africa Organisation was not renewed for the 2026 pageant.
According to Nungu Diamonds, negotiations were conducted in good faith but ultimately, the parties were unable to reach a mutually beneficial agreement. Despite this, Nungu Diamonds granted the Miss South Africa Organisation permission to use the Mowana Crown at the finale, on the 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.
The Miss South Africa organisation showed their support for Makamu, stating that the judging process takes into account diverse views about the qualities that should define Miss South Africa. They emphasised that beauty, elegance, confidence and presence remain fundamental to the competition, but also stressed that the title must reflect the evolving aspirations and realities of South African society. Today's Miss South Africa must embody both beauty and substance.
The organisation stated that their responsibility extends beyond crowning a woman who commands admiration on stage. They aim to identify an ambassador capable of inspiring others, championing important causes and representing South Africa with dignity, purpose and distinction, particularly in advancing opportunities for women and young people. This aligns with their goal of making a meaningful difference.
The Miss South Africa organisation's response to the criticism highlights their commitment to creating a more inclusive and representative pageant. By inviting public participation in the unveiling of the official crown, they hope to create a sense of ownership and connection with the nation. The controversy surrounding Makamu's crown has sparked a conversation about the values and aspirations that the Miss South Africa title represents.
Key points
- The Miss South Africa organisation has invited public participation in unveiling the official crown for the titleholder.
- The crown worn by Tiyani Makamu was not designed by Nungu Diamonds, who designed the Mowana crown for previous winners.
- The Miss South Africa organisation emphasised that the title must reflect the evolving aspirations and realities of South African society.
