By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Caption: Lesego Khumo Nyathela (Left), Tiyani Makamu (Centre) and Cwenga Koyana Kotu-Rammopo (Right) Photo Credit: @Official_MissSA.
Tiyani Makamu has been crowned Miss South Africa 2026 at the grand finale held at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg on November 14, 2026.
Makamu (27) emerged as the winner after competing against 11 other finalists, with Lesego Khumo Nyathela and Cwenga Koyana Kotu-Rammopo also making it to the final three.
The event was hosted by the evergreen Lawrence Maleka and former Miss South Africa Jo-Ann Strauss.
Zee Nxumalo and Young Stunna took over the stage with an electric performance that had the energy right where it needed to be.
Makamu will receive a R1 million cash award and a dedicated R500 000 Impact Fund to support initiatives aligned with her advocacy work.
The prize package forms part of changes introduced by the Miss South Africa Organisation ahead of this year’s competition.
The organisation introduced the R5 million Women’s Leadership Impact Fund to support and advance women’s leadership through philanthropic, corporate and development partnerships.
A separate R1 million Empower Youth Africa (EYA) Ambassador Impact Fund will support projects designed and led by the 12 finalists.
All top 12 finalists have been inducted as EYA ambassadors and will continue in these roles after the finale. Their work will focus on education, entrepreneurship, health and wellness, youth leadership and community development.
The first and second princesses will receive R250 000 and R150 000 cash awards, respectively, alongside dedicated impact funds of R150 000 and R100 000.
The top three contestants will also have access to executive development opportunities, mentorship, wellness support and regional and international leadership networks.
Makamu hails from Bronkorspruit in Gauteng, she 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 sustainably.