South African singer Makhosazana Masango, popularly known as Azana, has officially secured a place in the Miss South Africa 2026 Top 19, bringing her one step closer to competing for one of the country’s most coveted crowns.
The highly anticipated Top 19 reveal took place on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at 14:00, with pageant fans tuning in as the announcement was streamed live on the official Miss South Africa YouTube Channel. Among the contestants announced was 25-year-old Azana, who hails from Ndwedwe and is proudly representing KwaZulu-Natal.
Miss South Africa introduced the singer by highlighting her work beyond the entertainment industry, describing her as a musician, model and philanthropist. The pageant also noted her EYA initiative, which focuses on community upliftment.
Azana’s selection reflects the impact of her advocacy and her commitment to using her platform to inspire positive change. Her passion for community development, music and storytelling caught the attention of the judging panel, who recognised the meaningful connection between her personal journey and the causes she supports.
Former Miss South Africa Shudufhadzo Musida praised Azana’s authenticity and commitment to her advocacy, saying, “Makhosazana walks her advocacy. She radiates the light she wants to impart.”
Colleen Larsen, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Business Engage, also highlighted the potential impact of Azana’s vision. “Community upliftment through libraries and music will make tremendous impact. Well done on picking up the baton,” she said.
Dr Aisha R. Pandor, Co-Founder of SweepSouth and Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Pandora Health, similarly praised Azana’s creative voice and personal story. She said Azana speaks with the enthusiasm of a true creative and uses music and storytelling to create an impact in schools.
For Azana, the journey to the Top 19 represents an opportunity to bring her different passions together on an even bigger platform. Her career in music, modelling and philanthropy has already given her a strong foundation, while her focus on community upliftment adds purpose to her pageant journey.
The Top 19 announcement was hosted by South African media personality and television presenter Minnie Dlamini, adding plenty of excitement and star power to the highly anticipated reveal.
With Azana now officially in the running, KwaZulu-Natal has another contestant to rally behind as the Miss South Africa 2026 competition continues. Her journey will be one to watch as she takes the next step toward the crown and looks to use the platform to amplify her message of creativity, community and positive change.
