R400,000 donation and a new Queen crowned at the Mrs SA 2026 Women’s Breakfast
28 March 2026: Runway fashion, philanthropy and a moment of change, came together in signature Mrs South Africa style on Saturday the 28th of March, as the pageant, powered by iME, hosted its annual Women’s Breakfast – one of its most anticipated events of the year.
The event delivered a significant milestone for the organisation, with R400,000 donated to the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) and the Southern Africa Animal Cancer Association (SAACA) – the largest charitable contribution in the event’s history. The funds were raised through 28 fundraising initiatives led by the 2025 finalists, reinforcing the programmes commitment to meaningful impact.
Mrs South Africa CEO Joani Johnson said the milestone reflects the broader purpose behind the title itself. “The Women’s Breakfast always reminds us that Mrs South Africa is about far more than a crown. By helping women discover their voice and step into their agency as forces for good, we are developing role models who create positive impact in their communities.”
“We are incredibly proud of what the 2025 finalists have achieved in raising this remarkable amount for charity, and we celebrate them wholeheartedly.”
Marking a fitting close to International Women’s Month, the event brought together hundreds of women for a morning dedicated to connection, networking, giving back, and celebration.
A new Queen is crowned
This year’s breakfast included a key moment with the official crowning of the new Mrs South Africa 2026, as reigning titleholder Verushka Singh stepped down to focus on personal priorities. Mrs South Africa expressed gratitude for her contribution and confirmed that she remains part of the organisation’s sisterhood.
In keeping with our succession protocol, First Princess Carika Bebb, has officially been crowned Mrs South Africa 2026 and will assume the duties and responsibilities with immediate effect. CEO Joani Jacobs was positive about the impact she will bring to the role, “Carika embodies the heart of what this platform represents, and we are incredibly excited to support her throughout her reign, as she begins the journey of making a difference.”
Carika is both humble and excited in her appointment and eager to be of service. “This is a bittersweet moment for me. I am honoured and privileged to step into the role of Mrs South Africa and fulfil what God wants to achieve through me. I believe I have been granted this opportunity to make a difference working with causes close to my heart and I cannot wait to get started,” she said.
A morning inspired by La Dolce Vita
Guests arrived at a setting inspired by the theme, “La Dolce Vita”, with the venue styled in an Amalfi Coast palette of blue, white, and sun-kissed yellow. Mediterranean accents and elegant tablescapes created an atmosphere celebrating life’s simple pleasures – connection, beauty and shared purpose.
Attended by the 2026 semi-finalists, alongside their mothers, sisters, daughters, friends, and mentors, the breakfast offered a dynamic programme of fashion and inspiration. Former titleholders, shared reflections on their journeys and the enduring value of the Mrs South Africa sisterhood.
Guests were also addressed by Vanes-Mari, who offered welcome words of encouragement to the Class of 2026 as they continue the year-long development and leadership journey.
Local design showcase
A highlight of the morning was a runway showcase featuring designers Amari, Nicci, Carien Couture, and Von Ami Couture, as well as Lizan Zondag.
The collections were modelled by the newly crowned Mrs South Africa Carika Bebb, Second Princess Talitha Oosthuizen, and previous titleholders, bringing the runway to life in a celebration of confidence and contemporary South African design.
Founded by designer Mandisa Phuncu, Amari blends African inspiration with contemporary design through its Amari Woman and Amari Men labels, creating garments that honour individuality and self-expression.
Carien Couture founded by Pretoria-based designer Carien Ungerer, is recognised for her meticulous tailoring and attention to detail, while Von Ami Couture, specialises in bespoke pieces that reflect each wearer’s individuality.
Partners and experiences
Alongside the runway showcase, guests explored boutique pop-up stalls hosted by Mrs South Africa’s official partners, offering everything from beauty and wellness to lifestyle and fashion experiences.
As the morning drew to a close, the atmosphere reflected the spirit of camaraderie that defines the Mrs South Africa programme, leaving this year’s contestants with a renewed sense of purpose. Offering a timely reminder that the effects of the Mrs South Africa programme ripple beyond the stage, equipping women with the networks and tools needed to make a lasting difference wherever they go. Mrs South Africa 2026 is made possible by the generous support of its sponsors: iME, PR Worx, Chery Krugersdorp, Brutal Fruit, Skin Renewal, Lamelle, Hirsch’s Homestore, Brentoni Eyewear, BTL Aesthetics, Slimz, PKF Octagon, Hotel Sky, iStyle, Action Coach, Collagen Lift Paris, Catrice, Vitalefemme, Busamed, Health Food Emporium with Nutriseed, Alvi Armani, Kwetso Foundation, Style and Image, Ponte de Val and Dotsure.
