Mrs South Africa Is Officially Searching for Its Next Formidable Queen

Mrs South Africa, powered by iME, is setting the tone for the year ahead with a clear declaration; 2026 belongs to the formidable woman. Entries for the new pageant season are officially open, and married women from across the country are already stepping forward in remarkable numbers.

It’s no surprise, the legacy of the past three queens reads like a modern blueprint for impact-driven leadership. Tshego Gaelae made history as the first Black woman to be crowned Mrs World. Erin-Jane Miller emerged as a tireless advocate for women and vulnerable children. And reigning titleholder Verushka Singh, crowned in November last year, broke new ground as the first Indian Mrs South Africa while leading with a bold commitment to climate sustainability.

Together, they have redefined what the crown represents today: presence with purpose, elegance with action.

According to Joani Jacobs, CEO of Mrs South Africa, this powerful lineage has ignited unprecedented interest in the programme. Women across the country are eager to carry forward a legacy that is no longer just aspirational, but deeply transformative.

“Every year we’re delighted to see how interest in the pageant continues to grow, with more women discovering the value the programme and our famous sisterhood can bring to their lives – from confidence and personal growth to lifelong connections” Jacobs says. “With so much excitement already building for the season ahead, we’re preparing a lineup of leadership workshops and webinars, mentoring sessions, public speaking opportunities, and charity initiatives to ensure every participant benefits from the experience, and can become the best version of themselves.”

Becoming Uniquely You

Often described as the MBA of Life, the Mrs South Africa journey spans 10 months and is designed to develop confidence, leadership, and real-world capability. Participants are guided through the art of presenting and positioning themselves, managing projects and events, communicating with intention, and navigating media with poise.

Throughout the programme, contestants are supported by specialist partners, experienced coaches, and alumni who offer hands-on guidance in personal branding, network building, and opportunity creation.

The impact, Jacobs notes, extends far beyond the stage.

“The skills women gain empower them across every area of life; their families, communities, careers, and personal ambitions,” she says. “Many go on to achieve things they once thought impossible, driving meaningful change while knowing they are backed by the full strength of the Mrs South Africa sisterhood.”

That sisterhood, she adds, is the programme’s quiet power. Bonds formed here often last years, bringing together women who might never have crossed paths, yet continue to uplift one another long after the crown is placed.

“They share advice, motivation, and ensure every woman’s crown stays firmly in place. That collective strength is at the heart of our success.”

What You Need to Know About Applications

Applications for Mrs South Africa 2026 are now open via the official website. The process is straightforward: complete the application form, upload the required documents and photographs, and once eligibility is confirmed, candidates are invited to casting events.

Judges will meet eligible applicants early in the year, with the National Casting taking place at Clearwater Mall in Roodepoort on Saturday, 31 January. Regional castings will be held in Cape Town on Thursday, 29 January, and Durban on Friday, 30 January. Each woman will step onto the stage to introduce herself, as judges look for presence, potential, and purpose.

Entries close at 17:00 on Monday, 26 January 2026. Full details, including the 2026 calendar, terms and conditions, and frequently asked questions, are available at mrssouthafrica.co.za

Mrs South Africa 2026 is made possible through the support of its sponsors, including iME, PR Worx, Chery Krugersdorp, Skin Renewal, Lamelle, Hirsch’s Home Store, Brentoni Eyewear, BTL Aesthetics, Slimz, PKF Octagon, Hotel Sky, iStyle, Hair Academy of South Africa Alberton, Pont de Val, Action Coach, Collagen Lift Paris, Catrice, Vitalefemme, Busamed, Health Food Emporium with Nutriseed, Alvi Armani, Brand SA, and Dotsure.