The Mrs SA beauty pageant has announced that entries for this year’s competition are now officially open!
The organisers revealed that they are looking for a woman who is ready to embark on a ten-month journey to not only represent SA but also develop leadership skills, enhance their personal capabilities and confidence.
For the past three years, the pageant crowned empowering women who broke barriers and made history.
In 2024, Tshego Gaelae was crowned Mrs SA 2024, and she went on to represent our country at the global Mrs World pageant, where she made history as the first black woman to be crowned Mrs World.
In November, Verushka Singh also made history as the first Indian woman to be crowned Mrs SA.
Since the entries are now open, “Independent Media Lifestyle” had a quick chat with Singh, the current reigning queen, to share some advice for the 2026 contestants vying for the crown.
She shared that in order to stand out during the competition, one should lead with substance, consistency and learn to communicate with clarity as well as your heart.
“The women who stand out are the ones who lead with substance and consistency. They’re prepared, coachable, and grounded in a clear sense of purpose.
“Beyond presence and confidence, it’s emotional intelligence that shines – how you treat people behind the scenes, how you respond under pressure, and how you show up when no one is watching. A strong contestant also knows her “why” and communicates it with clarity and heart,” Singh said.
The 39-year-old beauty queen added that for women doubting if they should enter the competition, you don’t need to be ready; you just need to be willing and simply go for it.
“If you’re questioning it, that often means it matters to you – and that’s a beautiful sign. You don’t need to be ‘ready’ in every way to enter; you just need to be willing.
“This journey has a way of growing you in confidence, leadership, and self-belief. If you feel a pull to do it, trust that nudge.
“You’re more capable than you think, and you don’t have to be perfect to be powerful,” she said.
Singh also shared that throughout the competition, contestants should always remember to stay true to themselves.
“Authenticity is everything – it’s what makes your story believable and your impact lasting. People connect to realness, not perfection.
“The best way to stay true to yourself is to stay anchored: know your values, protect your energy, and don’t compare your journey to anyone else’s.
“Use the guidance you receive, but don’t perform a version of yourself that isn’t real. When you speak from your lived experience and your truth, you become unforgettable,” the beauty queen added.
Singh also shared advice for the upcoming contestants, saying that this is more than just glitz, glamour and gowns, but more of a leadership programme to make a change in the world.
“Treat this experience like a leadership programme, not just a pageant. Be intentional about what you want to grow, what you want to represent, and what you want to leave behind.
“Show up fully, stay teachable, and remember: confidence isn’t something you wait for – it’s something you build through action,” she said.
Entries close on Monday, January 26, and you can enter the competition by visiting the Mrs SA website.
