12-Year-Old South African Beauty Queen Esihle Mangwana to Represent Country at Universal Queen International 2026

Esihle Mangwana, a 12-year-old beauty queen from Newcastle, is set to represent South Africa at the Universal Queen International 2026 pageant in Colombia this June.

Originally from Newcastle in KwaZulu-Natal, Esihle now lives in Brakpan and will compete against contestants from around the world in the 10th edition of the international competition.

Her journey began at a young age through participation in local pageants, and she quickly built an impressive résumé. She has won Miss Wonder Woman 2023, Miss Teen Excellency SA, IMSA Miss Green 2024, and IMSA Miss Fitness 2025.

Her victory in the Pre-Teen Universal crown ultimately earned her the opportunity to compete internationally.

Speaking to Briefly.co.za about her achievement, Esihle said:

“It was such a proud and joyful moment for our whole family. Everyone was so happy for us, and it honestly felt like a golden bonus.”