THE FUSE

South African singer Makhosazana Masango, better known as Azana, is officially in the running for the Miss South Africa 2026 crown after making it into the coveted Top 19.

The highly anticipated Top 19 reveal took place today, Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at 14:00, with beauty pageant fans tuning in as the announcement streamed live on the official Miss South Africa YouTube Channel.

Among the names announced was 25-year-old Azana, who hails from Ndwedwe and is representing KwaZulu-Natal.

Miss South Africa introduced her with the words: “Introducing the #MissSA2026 Top 19 Makhosazana Azana Masango, 25, from Ndwedwe, representing KwaZulu-Natal. A musician, model and philanthropist, her EYA initiative focuses on Community Upliftment..”

Azana’s journey into the Top 19 comes with strong recognition from the judging panel, who highlighted her passion for community upliftment, music and storytelling.

Former Miss South Africa Shudufhadzo Musida shared her reason for selecting Azana, saying, “Makhosazana walks her advocacy. She radiates the light she wants to impart.”

Colleen Larsen, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Business Engage, also praised Azana’s vision, saying, “Community upliftment through libraries and music will make tremendous impact. Well done on picking up the baton.”

Dr Aisha R. Pandor, the Co-Founder of home and care services platform SweepSouth, as well as the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Pandora Health, said Azana’s creative voice and personal story stood out.

“Makhosazana speaks with the enthusiasm of a true creative, using music and storytelling to create impact in schools – she has turned her own story and love for her community into a desire to promote positive change,” she shared.

With her music, modelling and philanthropic work all forming part of her journey, Azana now moves one step closer to the Miss South Africa 2026 crown.

The Top 19 announcement was hosted by South African media personality and TV host Minnie Dlamini, adding even more star power to the much-anticipated reveal.

For Azana, the announcement marks an exciting new chapter and KwaZulu-Natal now has one more reason to cheer as the Miss South Africa 2026 journey heats up.

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