Mpumalanga-born audiologist and humanitarian Romanda Hombir has officially been crowned Miss World South Africa 2026. The 27-year-old founder of the Caring Purpose Foundation received the prestigious title on Saturday, 18 July 2026—a date rendered even more powerful as it coincided with Nelson Mandela Day.
Hombir will now carry the South African flag onto the global stage when she represents the nation at the 73rd Miss World pageant, scheduled to take place in Vietnam on 5 September 2026.
A Mandela Day Crowning Loaded With Purpose
Shortly after her historic crowning, an emotional Hombir took to social media wearing her new crown and sash, reflecting on what it means to represent Mzansi’s spirit of resilience and care on an international platform:
“I feel blessed to represent a country that is so strong, so tenacious, so vibrant,” Hombir shared. “Now the world gets to see how we care, how actively we invest in the future, and how we’re ready to change the trajectory of Africa.”
Her journey into advocacy wasn’t born on the pageant stage, but through her professional career as an audiologist and her hands-on work with children in underserved communities.
From Grassroots Advocacy to the World Stage
In a moving statement, the new queen reflected on the personal experience that sparked her philanthropic movement, reinforcing that poverty should never restrict a child’s ambition:
“My journey was sparked by a single, beautiful child whose story taught me that care must be intentional, holistic, and rooted in unconditional love,” she wrote. “Today, that small dream has grown into a movement of dignity, education, and compassion.”
Looking forward to the 73rd Miss World final in Vietnam, Hombir remains focused on using her platform to champion youth empowerment across borders:
“Poverty does not define a child; their potential does. As Miss World South Africa, I am honored to carry this message beyond our borders. My mission is to ensure that every child, in every corner of the world, knows that they are loved, valued, and respected.”
