Local models in Mpumalanga earn spots in Miss African Beauty South Africa 2026 | Mpumalanga News

South Africa’s most exciting beauty-with-a-purpose pageant has unveiled the 20 exceptional women who will compete for the coveted title of Miss African Beauty South Africa 2026 later this year. Among the finalists are Mpumalanga representatives Bajabulise Thela (22) and Romanda Hombir (27), both from KaNyamazane.

Their selection is a proud achievement for the province and a reflection of their dedication, confidence and commitment to making a difference in their communities. The two now stand a chance to compete in the Miss Universe South Africa and Miss World South Africa competitions.

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Thela is a model, a qualified flight attendant, and the founder of the Mambane Foundation. She is also the former Miss Teen Grand 2021 and Miss Mpumalanga 2024.
She believes the Miss African Beauty South Africa title demands strong leadership, patience, and the ability to serve under pressure.

“My ability to stay composed and think clearly in difficult situations will help me handle challenges with grace and maturity. I believe these are important qualities every titleholder should have, and they will help me represent the platform with confidence and purpose,” she said.

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Hombir is an audiologist, motivational speaker, model, and founder of the Caring Purpose Foundation. She was the second runner-up at Miss World South Africa 2024. She believes her diverse professional and community-service background makes her a strong contender for the crown.

In her Miss African Beauty South Africa public profile, Hombir said she brings a rare combination of clinical expertise, lived experience, and proven action through Caring Purpose.

She explained that she aims to expand community programmes, including mobile health screenings, food gardens, and equipped libraries. She also aims to use every platform to advocate for reproductive health education, increased funding for women’s health research, and meaningful policy change.

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The two finalists will join 18 other contestants from across the country as they embark on the journey toward the Miss African Beauty South Africa 2026 crown, proudly representing Mpumalanga while promoting leadership, service, and empowerment among young women.