Minnie Dlamini to host Miss South Africa 2026 Top 19 announcement

Minnie Dlamini is returning to the Miss South Africa universe, and this time, she’s taking the mic for the highly anticipated Top 19 announcement.

Meet your #MissSA2026 Top 19 Announcement host! 👑

We’re thrilled to announce the award-winning international TV host, 🎙️ Executive Producer, Actress, Businesswoman and Africa’s Diamond 💎, @MinnieDlamini as the host of the #MissSA2026 Top 19 Announcement, brought to you by… pic.twitter.com/lxiLb99DT7

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10 Miss South Africa 2026 video entries that have captured our attention

— Miss South Africa (@Official_MissSA) August 18, 2026

The award-winning television presenter, actress, businesswoman and executive producer has been announced as the host of the Miss South Africa 2026 Top 19 announcement, which will reveal which semifinalists have made it through to the next stage of the competition. The announcement is set to stream on the official Miss South Africa YouTube channel.

For Minnie, the role feels like a natural fit. She has long been one of South Africa’s most recognisable television personalities, building a career across entertainment, fashion and live events. Her hosting credits include the South African Music Awards, SAFTAs, Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards and Miss South Africa, among others.

Minnie Dlamini. Image: Instagram/@minniedlamini

She is also no stranger to the world of pageantry. Minnie previously hosted Miss World South Africa, taking on the role for two years, and has spoken about her personal connection to beauty competitions. Her own pageant journey began as a student when she won a beauty title, making her return to the Miss South Africa stage feel particularly full circle.

But this year’s competition is about more than a crown. Miss South Africa has positioned its 2026 edition as part of a “New Era”, with a stronger emphasis on leadership, purpose, social impact and nation-building. The Top 19 will be selected following a semifinalist judging process that assessed qualities including leadership potential, strategic thinking, resilience, authenticity and the ability to inspire and mobilise communities.

The organisation previously announced a Top 24, made up of young women from across South Africa with diverse backgrounds, professions and perspectives. Now, the field narrows once again as the Top 19 prepare to continue their journey towards the coveted Miss South Africa crown.

We have an announcement! 📣

The journey continues as we reveal the official #MissSA2026 Top 19 contestants! 💜

Will your favourite make it to the next round?

Tune in to the Miss South Africa YouTube page, Wednesday 19 August at 2:00 PM to find out! 🗓️

Set your reminders. You… pic.twitter.com/maLCJn2aJd

— Miss South Africa (@Official_MissSA) August 16, 2026

And who better to guide audiences through such a major moment than Minnie? With her polished presenting style, natural confidence and years of experience commanding some of the country’s biggest stages, we’re expecting the Top 19 reveal to come with plenty of glamour.