“Bajabulise Thela and Romanda Hombir, both from KaNyamazane in Mpumalanga, have been named among the 20 finalists for Miss African Beauty South Africa 2026. Their achievements reflect not only personal success but also a commitment to community service, advocacy, and empowerment.”
Rising Stars from Mpumalanga Shine in Miss African Beauty South Africa 2026
South Africa’s beauty pageant scene has long been a platform for showcasing not only glamour but also leadership, advocacy, and community impact. This year, the Miss African Beauty South Africa 2026 competition has unveiled its top 20 finalists, and among them are two remarkable women from KaNyamazane, Mpumalanga: Bajabulise Thela and Romanda Hombir. Their inclusion in the prestigious lineup is more than a personal triumph—it is a proud moment for their province and a reflection of the evolving role of beauty queens in shaping social change.
Bajabulise Thela: A Model of Grace and Leadership
At just 22 years old, Bajabulise Thela has already built an impressive résumé. A qualified flight attendant, model, and founder of the Mambane Foundation, she has previously held titles such as Miss Teen Grand 2021 and Miss Mpumalanga 2024. Her journey demonstrates resilience and ambition, qualities she believes are essential for the Miss African Beauty South Africa crown.
Thela emphasizes that the role demands strong leadership, patience, and the ability to serve under pressure. In her own words, “My ability to stay composed and think clearly in difficult situations will help me handle challenges with grace and maturity.” Her vision for the crown extends beyond personal achievement—she aims to use the platform to inspire young women to embrace confidence and pursue leadership roles in their communities.
Romanda Hombir: Advocacy Through Action
Romanda Hombir, 27, brings a unique blend of professional expertise and community service to the competition. An audiologist, motivational speaker, and founder of the Caring Purpose Foundation, she has already made her mark as the second runner-up at Miss World South Africa 2024. Her foundation focuses on initiatives such as mobile health screenings, food gardens, and equipped libraries, all designed to uplift underserved communities.
Hombir’s advocacy is particularly focused on reproductive health education, increased funding for women’s health research, and meaningful policy change. She believes that beauty queens must embody more than elegance—they must be catalysts for social transformation. Her diverse background positions her as a strong contender for the crown, with the ability to merge clinical expertise with grassroots activism.
The Broader Impact of Miss African Beauty South Africa
The Miss African Beauty South Africa competition is not just about aesthetics; it is a “beauty-with-a-purpose” pageant that prioritizes leadership, service, and empowerment. The inclusion of Thela and Hombir underscores the competition’s commitment to selecting women who can represent South Africa on global stages such as Miss Universe and Miss World. Their stories highlight how beauty pageants in South Africa have evolved into platforms for advocacy, mentorship, and community development.
Mpumalanga’s Pride and Representation
For Mpumalanga, having two representatives in the top 20 is a significant achievement. It reflects the province’s growing influence in national competitions and provides role models for young women aspiring to make a difference. Thela and Hombir’s success is a testament to the importance of confidence, education, and community service in shaping future leaders.
Looking Ahead
As the finalists prepare for the journey toward the crown, the spotlight will remain on how they balance glamour with responsibility. Thela’s calm leadership and Hombir’s advocacy-driven approach represent two powerful narratives that resonate with South Africa’s broader goals of empowerment and inclusivity. Their participation is not just about winning a title—it is about redefining beauty as a force for change.
The Miss African Beauty South Africa 2026 finale promises to be a celebration of talent, resilience, and purpose. For Bajabulise Thela and Romanda Hombir, it is an opportunity to showcase not only their beauty but also their vision for a better, more empowered South Africa.
