Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) celebrated leadership, confidence, cultural pride and student excellence during the Mr and Miss SMU 2026 pageant, held at the SMU Sport Complex on 31 July 2026. The annual event reaffirmed the university’s commitment to developing graduates who embody leadership, integrity, Ubuntu and academic excellence while preparing them to make meaningful contributions to society.
The prestigious occasion brought together students, staff, alumni, sponsors and guests for an evening that recognised students who exemplify the University’s values through character, service and leadership. The event was hosted by internationally acclaimed South African beauty queen Lalela Lali Mswane, Miss South Africa 2021 and Miss Supranational 2022, whose inspiring journey and commitment to youth empowerment added significance to the celebration.
Guests were welcomed with a vibrant red-carpet experience before contestants officially opened the programme with an energetic performance that showcased confidence, enthusiasm and teamwork. Throughout the evening, contestants demonstrated that the competition extends beyond appearance, highlighting the qualities expected of future university ambassadors.
Delivering the welcome address, Acting Executive Director: Student Affairs, Tulani Nkuntse, described the pageant as an important leadership development platform that identifies students capable of representing SMU with distinction.
“Mr and Miss SMU is much more than a beauty pageant. It is a leadership platform that identifies young men and women who will represent the university’s values with integrity, compassion and excellence. We are proud to celebrate students who inspire others through their confidence, character and commitment to making a positive impact,” said Nkuntse.
Contestants competed across three categories designed to showcase different aspects of their abilities. The traditional wear and cultural attire segment celebrated South Africa’s rich cultural heritage, while the swimwear category assessed confidence, discipline and stage presence. The evening wear segment concluded the competition by allowing contestants to demonstrate poise, professionalism, and self-confidence.
Entertainment throughout the evening, including performances by the TDD Dancers, complemented the competition and kept the atmosphere engaging. One of the evening’s defining moments was the question-and-answer sessions involving the Top Five and Top Three finalists. Their responses demonstrated leadership potential, communication skills, critical thinking and a clear vision for serving the SMU community.
The judging panel included renowned South African actress, television presenter, and entrepreneur Katlego Danke; SMU Acting Director of Advancement and Communications Tshimangadzo Mphaphuli, a recipient of a MACE Excellence Award; and respected professionals from various sectors. Reflecting on the competition’s standards, Mphaphuli commended the contestants for exemplifying the qualities expected of university ambassadors.
“This year’s contestants displayed remarkable confidence, authenticity and leadership. They demonstrated that the title of Mr or Miss SMU is earned through purpose, resilience and the willingness to serve others. Every finalist represented the university with pride and distinction,” she said.
Following a closely contested competition, Tlotlo Manamela was crowned Mr SMU 2026, with Sanele Mhlongo named First Runner-up and Mpho Mufamadi receiving the titles of Second Runner-up and Mr SMU Viewers’ Choice. In the women’s category, Keamogetswe Sepeng was crowned Miss SMU 2026, while Junior Remematla Malelu was named First Runner-up and Dimpho Seroka received the titles of Second Runner-up and Miss SMU Viewers’ Choice.
Speaking after receiving the crown, Manamela acknowledged the responsibility that accompanies the title. “Winning this title is both an honour and a responsibility. I look forward to representing SMU with humility and purpose while encouraging students to embrace leadership, excellence and service. Together, we can create a positive impact both on campus and within our communities,” he said.
Sepeng said her reign would focus on inspiring others to recognise their potential and lead with purpose. “This crown symbolises purpose rather than personal achievement. I hope to use this platform to encourage young people to believe in themselves, pursue their dreams fearlessly and become leaders who uplift others. I am proud to represent SMU and everything it stands for,” she said.
Throughout their reign, the newly crowned ambassadors will represent SMU at official university events, community engagement initiatives and student leadership programmes. Working alongside the Student Affairs Directorate, they will champion the university’s values of excellence, integrity, accountability, compassion, respect and Ubuntu while inspiring fellow students to become active contributors within their communities.
The Mr and Miss SMU 2026 pageant once again demonstrated that the competition is a platform for identifying future leaders who combine academic excellence, resilience, social responsibility and service. By nurturing graduates who embody these qualities, SMU continues to strengthen its contribution to higher education, leadership development and the advancement of communities in South Africa and beyond.
By Dimakatso Modise and Kelebogile Rakgolela
