(Jun 2026)
Pretoria, South Africa — The Next Opulent Model South Africa™ (The Next OMSA), proudly brought to you by Sun International, enters its eleventh year with a powerful theme that reflects both its legacy and future vision: “Reputation.” More than a word, it represents the values of integrity, excellence, discipline, and opportunity that have established The Next OMSA as one of South Africa’s most respected modelling and fitness platforms.
On 20 August 2026, the Grand Finale will take place at the iconic SunBet Arena, Time Square, proudly presented by Sun International in collaboration with Johan Ungerer Signature Events. More than 200 finalists will compete before an audience of nearly 5,000 guests, making it one of the largest modelling and fitness productions in South Africa. The event will be directed by internationally acclaimed Creative Director Willie Venter, recognized by The American Guild of Artists, ensuring a world-class showcase of fashion, entertainment, and performance.
For more than a decade, The Next OMSA has remained committed to discovering, developing, and elevating talent. As the exclusive South African partner of Top Model Worldwide London, the platform has consistently created international opportunities for South African models, many of whom have gone on to walk at London Fashion Week, SA Fashion Week, and secure campaigns across Europe, Asia, and New York.
The competition’s impact is best reflected through the lives it has helped transform. One such success story is Yolanda Monyai, an award-winning South African fashion model, digital influencer, podcast host, and proud Friend of the Brand. Like many aspiring models, Yolanda began her journey with ambition and determination but limited access to industry networks and opportunities. Through her association with The Next Opulent Models South Africa, she was exposed to a professional environment that encouraged growth, personal branding, confidence, and industry excellence.
Today, Yolanda has evolved into one of the most recognizable personalities associated with the brand. Her achievements in modelling, media, and digital influence have earned her widespread recognition, culminating in her appointment as a distinguished judge for the 2025 The Next Opulent Models South Africa competition.
” The Next Opulent Models South Africa gave me more than a platform, it gave me belief, mentorship, and the confidence to pursue opportunities I once thought were beyond my reach,” says Monyai. “The experience transformed the way I saw myself and what I believed was possible.”
Her journey represents the very essence of The Next OMSA’s mission: creating opportunities that empower individuals to unlock their full potential and build lasting careers.
According to The Next OMSA Founder and CEO Johan Ungerer, reputation is built through action, consistency, and the willingness to invest in people.
“For eleven years, The Next OMSA has been committed to creating opportunities that change lives. We do not simply host a competition; we develop people, build confidence, and create pathways to success. Watching individuals like Yolanda Monyai grow into respected industry professionals is exactly why The Next OMSA exists. Their success becomes part of our legacy, and their journeys inspire the next generation of talent.”
Empowerment remains central to The Next OMSA’s vision. Contestants are given access to immersive workshops, mentorship programmes, catwalk training, photographic development, social media strategy, and personal branding guidance. These initiatives ensure that every finalist leaves with valuable skills, increased confidence, and greater readiness for the competitive fashion and entertainment industries.
The Grand Finale is also a celebration of South Africa’s creative economy. Fashion designers, photographers, makeup artists, hair stylists, performers, and industry professionals are provided with a national platform to showcase their talents. By creating opportunities without financial barriers, The Next OMSA continues to foster inclusion, innovation, and industry growth.
This year’s judging panel will feature leading celebrities, business leaders, and industry experts who will help identify the country’s next generation of modelling stars. With categories spanning runway, editorial, commercial, and fitness modelling, The Next OMSA continues to embrace diversity and individuality while maintaining world-class standards.
From humble beginnings in a hotel conference room with only 20 finalists, The Next OMSA has grown into a nationally recognized production attended by thousands. Its journey reflects vision, perseverance, and an unwavering belief in the power of opportunity.
As The Next OMSA enters its second decade, the organization remains focused on expanding opportunities for South African talent, strengthening international partnerships, and ensuring local models continue to compete successfully on the global stage.
Tickets for the Grand Finale are available exclusively through iTickets. General seating tickets are priced at R320, while a limited number of VIP experiences are available at R1,350. VIP guests will enjoy red carpet arrivals, exclusive photo opportunities, premium seating, and a three-course dinner catered by Time Square.
The Next Opulent Model South Africa™ continues to prove that when reputation meets empowerment, extraordinary success stories follow.
