The Miss South Africa Organisation has announced its esteemed semifinalist judging panel, comprising three accomplished leaders with diverse backgrounds. Their careers span global policy, entrepreneurship, technology, health innovation, gender equality and social transformation.
The Miss South Africa Organisation acknowledges its ongoing commitment to empowering women nationwide. Miss South Africa embodies both beauty and leadership, with a focus on impact and social transformation. As it transitions into a leadership pipeline that drives impact on a large scale, centred on purpose, impact and nation-building, the composition of the semifinalist judging panel reflects the values defining the Miss South Africa organisation’s New Era.
The judges play a crucial role in evaluating this year’s semifinalists and selecting the Top 19 finalists who will advance to the next stage of the Miss South Africa 2026 competition. Drawing on their collective expertise, they identify young women who demonstrate the leadership potential, vision and commitment required to create meaningful change in South Africa and across the African continent. This panel embodies the bold leadership that reflects the New Era of Miss South Africa. Miss South Africa finalists are judged on far more than just beauty, public speaking and presentation. Importantly, the competition evaluates leadership potential, strategic thinking, social impact, authenticity, resilience and the ability to inspire and mobilise communities. This year’s judging panel boasts expertise from international diplomacy, entrepreneurship, business leadership, technology, healthcare, innovation and transformation.
Dr Aisha R. Pandor
An entrepreneur, investor and technology innovator, has become one of Africa’s leading tech entrepreneurs. As the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Pandora Health, an AI-driven health platform, she focuses on improving wellness and longevity through personalised healthcare solutions. Dr Pandor, a PhD holder in Human Genetics from the University of Cape Town, seamlessly blends scientific expertise with entrepreneurial leadership. Her innovative contributions and technological advancements have earned her recognition from prestigious organisations like the World Economic Forum and Forbes Africa. Her track record of building technology-driven businesses that create tangible social and economic impact aligns perfectly with the entrepreneurial leadership the Miss South Africa Organisation aims to nurture through the Miss South Africa New Era.
Colleen Larsen
Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Business Engage, is a recognised advocate for inclusive leadership, workplace mainstreaming and gender equality. Over two decades, she has collaborated with corporate leaders, policymakers and international organisations to champion diversity, inclusion and women’s leadership across Africa. Larsen has partnered with over 115 organisations and collaborated with renowned entities such as UN Women, the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and the International Labour Organisation (ILO). As a respected strategist, author and thought leader, she has played a pivotal role in positioning gender mainstreaming as a business imperative that strengthens organisations, fosters innovation and drives sustainable growth. Her extensive experience in governance, inclusive leadership and organisational transformation has provided invaluable insights into identifying finalists with the potential to become influential leaders capable of driving meaningful societal change.
Shudufhadzo Musida
Miss South Africa 2020, is a global strategist, mental health advocate and respected global voice. She works at the intersection of policy, business and social impact, currently serving as the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Global Champion for Women and Girls. This role involves engaging with heads of state, foreign ministers and global institutions across over 20 countries to advocate for women and girls’ advancement. Musida holds degrees in Philosophy, Politics and Economics, International Relations and a STEM-designated Master of Public Administration in International Finance and Economic Policy from Columbia University. She uses her advisory firm, Masana Group, and her work with international organisations and corporate boards to shape conversations around leadership, economic inclusion and sustainable development. Her diverse experience in diplomacy, public policy and global advocacy provided a unique perspective to the Miss South Africa 2026 semifinal judging process.
