IN PICS | Cool, calm and collected Tiyani Makamu takes Miss SA crown

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Opens in new windowOpens in new windowThapelo Morebudi Enter fullscreen mode displaying this image.ExpandMiss SA 2026 Tiyani Makamu waves at the attendees of the Miss SA beauty pageant moments after being crowned at the Sandton convention centre in Johannesburg. Picture: Thapelo Morebudi Miss SA has crowned its newest winner, Tiyani Makamu. The 2026 title holder was born and bred in Bronkhorstspruit, Gauteng.

Praised for her calm demeanour, Makamu’s passion for small-business development won over the judging panel, which included former public protector Thuli Madonsela.

New Miss SA Tiyani Makamu on stage with Precious Moloi-Motsepe and Miss SA 2025, Qhawekazi Mazaleni. Picture: Thapelo Morebudi Miss SA 2026 Tiyani Makamu reflects as she is announced as the winner of the Miss SA beauty pageant at Sandton convention centre in Johannesburg. Picture: Thapelo Morebudi “We’re in trouble as a country, and we need young people who are leading other young people for change,” said Madonsela at a press briefing during the evening. She added that while any of the contestants could have taken the crown, it was Makamu’s blend of “beauty, brains and leadership”.

Makamu becomes the 68th title holder and walks away with a R1m cash prize. This will also include mentorship, professional representation and executive leadership development during her reign.

Miss SA 2026 Tiyani Makamu stands as she is announced as the winner of the Miss SA beauty pageant. Picture: Thapelo Morebudi Tiyani Makamu on stage with her fellow contestants. Picture: Thapelo Morebudi Tiyani Makamu on stage with her fellow contestants. Picture: Thapelo Morebudi TimesLIVE

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