A Celebration of Style, Talent and Youthful Excellence at the Mr and Miss Opal Students 2026 Finale

On 29 August 2026, Olympus Manor, Pretoria, became a stage for confidence, creativity and celebration as students gathered for the Mr and Miss Opal Students 2026 Finale. Organised by the Opal Students Foundation, the event brought together students from Naturena and Primula House to enjoy an evening of pageantry and discover the new titleholders.

The finale reflected the Foundation’s mission of Igniting Excellence and Empowering the Youth. It offered contestants an opportunity to express themselves, showcase their talents and compete for titles in front of an audience that included students, family, friends, sponsors and guests.

The evening began with an energetic choreography performance by the contestants. Their opening routine set an upbeat tone and gave the audience an early glimpse of the confidence and stage presence that would carry through the competition. Hosting the event were Opal’s Student Life Manager, Lolo Phala, and Precious Maroga, Miss Opal 2024. Together, they guided the programme and kept the celebrations moving.

The judges brought pageant experience and professional insight to the difficult task of selecting the winners. The panel included Refiloe Amoh Fatsu, a pageant specialist; Shonisani, of Shonisani Braids, one of the event’s sponsors; and Mrs Patricia Tshitema, Managing Director of Bono Property Group.

This year’s programme featured several opportunities for contestants to demonstrate their style and individuality. A new addition was the Ankara round, which brought vibrant African-inspired fashion to the stage. The creative-wear round was another standout moment: contestants presented imaginative outfits, many made primarily from sustainable materials. The designs impressed the judges and audience alike, combining originality with a thoughtful approach to fashion. In the formal-wear showcase, contestants brought elegance and poise to the runway.

The evening also celebrated talent beyond the pageant. The Opal Students Choir entertained the crowd with a musical performance, while Buhle “Beauty Bee” Mahlangu, winner of the Opal Talent Show, shared a graceful poetry performance. These acts added to the festive atmosphere and highlighted the range of creative talent within the Opal community.

The event was supported by sponsors including Bono Property Group, Naked_i, Shonisani Braids and Zwashu Manufacturing. Their contributions helped make the finale a memorable gathering for the contestants and the wider Opal Students community.