Tiyani Makamu, a contestant from Gauteng, has been crowned Miss SA 2026 at a ceremony held at the Sandton Convention Centre over the weekend. Makamu, who hails from Bronkhorstspruit, took over the title from Qhawekazi Mazaleni from the Eastern Cape. The event saw 12 contestants compete for the coveted crown, with Makamu emerging as the winner. The competition focused not only on physical beauty but also on the contestants' ability to make a positive impact in their communities.
The Miss SA 2026 pageant emphasized the importance of having a plan to make a difference in society. All 12 contestants were given the opportunity to share their plans and initiatives, which they have been working on or plan to work on if crowned. The Empower Youth Africa (EYA) Initiative, led by Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe, supported these initiatives, and the contestants, whether winners or not, will continue to serve as ambassadors for the organization.
Makamu impressed the judges with her entrepreneurial spirit and plans to empower youth in South Africa. In her final response before being crowned, she stated that she would ensure that the youth of South Africa not only receive education but also develop their skills. She plans to use her organization to collaborate with relevant institutions and government to make a meaningful impact.
As the winner of Miss SA 2026, Makamu took home a cash prize of R1 million and will receive R500,000 to support her projects from the Impact Fund. The first runner-up, Cwenga Koyana Kotu-Rammopo from Edenvale, received R250,000 and an additional R150,000 from the Impact Fund. The second runner-up, Lesego Khumo Nyathela from Springs, received R150,000 and R100,000.
The Miss SA pageant has become a platform for young women to showcase their talents, skills, and passion for making a difference in their communities. The competition has been ongoing for years, and this year's event was no exception. The 12 contestants who participated in the pageant demonstrated exceptional qualities, and Makamu's win was a testament to her hard work and dedication.
Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe's Empower Youth Africa (EYA) Initiative has been supporting the Miss SA pageant and its contestants. The organization aims to empower young people, especially women, to become change-makers in their communities. By supporting the contestants' initiatives, the EYA Initiative hopes to create a ripple effect of positive change in South Africa.
The Miss SA 2026 pageant has come to a close, but the impact of the competition will be felt for a long time. Tiyani Makamu's win is an inspiration to young women across the country, and her plans to make a difference in her community are a testament to the power of determination and hard work. As Makamu begins her reign as Miss SA 2026, she will undoubtedly make a lasting impact on the lives of many young people in South Africa.
Key points
- Tiyani Makamu from Gauteng wins Miss SA 2026 title with her plans to empower youth in South Africa.
