Fresh out of the Zoo

(Aug 2025)

The Next Opulent Model South Africa (OMSA), the country’s most prestigious modelling and fitness competition, concluded its 2025 season in spectacular fashion on Thursday, 14 August 2025 at the SunBet Arena, Time Square, Pretoria.

Hosted by Johan Ungerer Signature Events in collaboration with Time Square South Africa, this year’s PRISM theme came alive on stage – celebrating transformation, diversity, and authenticity in the modelling world.

“OMSA once again proved that success in fashion and modelling comes from being uniquely yourself,” said Johan Ungerer, Founder and Director of OMSA.

“We are proud to be a safe, professional platform where aspiring and established models can shine without fear of exploitation.”

With modelling scams still a serious concern in South Africa, OMSA has established itself as the most trusted and reputable platform in the industry. Its exclusive partnership with Top Model Worldwide (London) and support from leading partners such as King Price Insurance, MSC Cruises, The Marketing Zoo, B Loved Foundation and more, have cemented its position as a legitimate, career-launching platform for talent.

Unlike traditional pageants, OMSA is a modelling and fitness competition that focuses on skill, growth, and personal transformation. Its wide range of categories ensures that every type of beauty and talent is celebrated – from Runway (Male & Female) to Curve Model, Over 25’s, Fitness Physique, Fresh Face, Mr. & Mrs. Opulent, Body Transformation, Body of the Year, and Men’s Open.

The 2025 judging panel brought together an extraordinary mix of international and local icons, each adding credibility and expertise to the competition. Among them was Ugandan-born entrepreneurial influencer, musician and actress Zarinah Hassan; South African media powerhouse Yolanda Monyai (Eulenda Mukondeleli); international athlete and fitness judge Dave Smith; and legendary model scout Tshidi Semakale of Boss Models. They were joined by acclaimed singer-songwriter Lady Zamar, renowned prosecutor Advocate Gerrie Nel, community-driven SAPS Brigadier Kushie Pietersen, hospitality and entertainment veteran Ruben Gooranah, and broadcaster and entrepreneur Gareth Cliff. Together, this distinguished panel embodied the values of integrity, diversity, and excellence that OMSA stands for, ensuring that every decision was guided by professionalism and respect for talent.

Adding to the glamour of the evening, the Grand Finale featured well-known personalities who brought star power to the stage. Much-loved TV presenter Ewan Strydom kept the audience captivated as MC, while the always-stylish Christo Golden welcomed finalists, guests, and VIPs on the red carpet. Their presence added an extra layer of sophistication and excitement, ensuring the event not only showcased top modelling talent but also delivered a world-class  entertainment experience.

The 2025 Grand Finale brought the stage to life with high energy, world-class production, and unforgettable performances by artists such as the Bitter Lekker music production crew  by Ontbytsake, culminating in the announcement of the new titleholders.

Winners for 2025 include:

  • Body of the year Male: Larnelle Pienaar (Boksburg, Johannesburg)
  • Over 25’s Female: Lerato Mokgabudi (Kyalami AH, Johannesburg)
  • Female physique Female: Mich Letcher (Bryanston, Johannesburg) 
  • Body of the year Male: Charl Bezuidenhout (Waverley, Pretoria)
  • Curve Female: Menante Botha (Benoni, Johannesburg)
  • Fitness Physique Male: James Nyabadza (Fourways, Johannesburg)
  • Fitness Physique Female: Keneau Rae Van Zyl (Roodepoort, Johannesburg)
  • Mr Opulent: Lee Ferreira (Malelane, Mpumalanga)
  • Fitness Physique Male: Jaco Paulsen (Northcliff, Randburg)
  • Runway Female: Theane Willemse (Kimberley, Northern Cape)
  • Men’s Open: Alexzander Nell (Mountain View, Pretoria)
  • Runway Male: Gavin Nolan (Roodepoort, Johannesburg) 
  • Beautiful Fresh Face: Yulienke Jacobs (Bethlehem, Free State)
  • Mrs Opulent: Monique Maritz (Olympus, Pretoria East)

These new titleholders will now carry the OMSA brand forward, representing the very best of South African talent and standing as ambassadors for integrity in the industry.

One of the competition’s strongest testaments remains Rethabile Mello, OMSA’s 2024 Runway Female Winner, who went on to place as 1st Runner-Up at Top Model Worldwide (London) and walked the runway at London Fashion Week. Her journey, along with this year’s newly crowned winners, proves that OMSA is not just a competition – it is a launchpad for international careers.

OMSA 2025 was more than a competition; it was a movement celebrating authenticity, diversity, and transformation. With each finalist’s journey, the event reaffirmed its commitment to integrity and safe opportunities within the modelling world.

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