Countdown to the 7th Annual Miss Teen Universe South Africa in Polokwane
Polokwane prepares for a spectacular showcase of talent and beauty at the 2026 Miss Teen Universe South Africa. Pictured is reigning queen Chrizmie Mostert.
Image: Miss Teen SA
THE countdown is officially on for the 7th Annual Miss Teen Universe South Africa and Miss Pre-Teen Universe South Africa crowning ceremony, set to take place in Polokwane from March 20 to 22, 2026.
The three-day spectacle ,a fusion of glamour, culture and youth empowerment — will once again be hosted in Polokwane, marking the second consecutive year the Limpopo capital has welcomed the national pageant after it was traditionally staged in Durban.
Organisers say the growing partnership with the Polokwane Municipality signals the province’s rising profile as a hub for youth development initiatives.
“It feels incredible to be back in Polokwane,” said Ntombi Gumede, National Director of Miss Teen Universe South Africa.
“The brand has grown beyond expectations. We’ve expanded across Mzansi with a powerful vision to reach every young girl with potential and give them a platform to shine. This year marks a new era for our organization.”
Gumede said the pageant is entering what she describes as a bold new chapter, strengthened by local and international partnerships aimed at elevating the brand in the global youth and beauty arena.
Aquamenti SA has signed a long-term agreement as the official headline sponsor. Organisers say the partnership reflects a shared focus on health, wellness and youth development, and will see the brand enjoy prominent visibility and naming rights aligned with one of the country’s leading teen empowerment platforms.
Three days of impact and celebration
The programme begins on Friday, March 20 with the arrival of finalists, followed by a community outreach initiative at Ditsepu High School. Activities will include a school shoe donation drive and a charity netball match — reinforcing the organisation’s commitment to social impact beyond the runway.
On Saturday March 21, the city will host the Hello Polokwane Fashion Show, spotlighting traditional attire and local designers in a celebration of heritage and creativity. The day will conclude with the preliminary judging round.
The grand finale on Sunday, March 22, promises a high-production evening of glitz and crowning moments, where South Africa’s next teen and pre-teen queens will be announced.
Organisers have also confirmed a strategic partnership with a United Kingdom-based skincare brand specialising in acne and youth-focused skin solutions. The collaboration will include product support and educational campaigns aimed at promoting confidence and healthy self-care among young participants.
More than a beauty competition, Miss Teen Universe South Africa positions itself as a leadership platform. Winners are chosen not only for their stage presence but for their commitment to community impact.
Reigning queen Chrizmie Mostert has used her title to establish the Brain Bloom Foundation, raising awareness about ADHD, dyslexia and dyscalculia, and advocating for young people living with learning challenges.
The organisation also works alongside its official NPO, Raising Future Leaders Siwugoba Usemanzi Foundation, delivering youth development programmes throughout the year. Finalists and reigning queens serve as youth ambassadors for the South African Red Cross Society, contributing to humanitarian efforts nationwide.
This year also marks a structural shift for the pageant. For the first time, opportunities have opened for Provincial Directors, expanding leadership structures and paving the way for a provincial selection system in future editions. Organisers confirmed that 2026 will be the final year in which delegates are directly scouted nationally.
“Judges have an incredibly tough task ahead,” Gumede added.
“The level of preparation this year is extraordinary. Our outgoing queens have set the bar high, and the next titleholders must be ready to lead, inspire, and serve.”
Following last year’s hosting by Uzalo’s Langa Mavuso and Miss South Africa 2022 runner-up Ayanda Thabethe, organisers have promised surprise hosts and entertainment for the 2026 edition.