Cape Town, 23 September 2026: Wine lovers in Cape Town will have the chance to sample some of South Africa’s finest wines in one location when the 2026 Fine Wine Awards Trophy Winners Tasting, in partnership with American Express, takes place at Cavendish Square on Saturday, 26 September 2026, from 11am to 2pm.

Hosted by Wine Tonight? in Cavendish Square’s Centre Court, the tasting will bring together the Trophy-winning wines from the 2026 Fine Wine Awards, giving shoppers a rare opportunity to taste their way through some of the standout wines selected from this year’s competition.

Nearly 1,000 Wines Judged Blind

The Fine Wine Awards have rapidly established themselves as one of South Africa’s significant wine competitions. Almost 1,000 wines were entered into the 2026 Awards, representing producers and wine styles from across the country.

Importantly, the wines are judged blind, meaning the tasting panel evaluates each wine without seeing the bottle, label, producer or price. The focus is entirely on the quality of the wine in the glass.

From those entries, the very best-performing wines across the different categories are recognised as Trophy winners – and it is these wines that will take centre stage at Cavendish Square.

Taste the Trophy Winners

The public tasting provides Cape Town wine lovers with an opportunity to discover and compare a collection of award-winning South African wines without having to travel from estate to estate.

Visitors will be able to taste the Trophy-winning wines, discover new producers and varietals, and purchase their favourites directly from the Wine Tonight? store at Cavendish Square.

American Express Cardmembers will receive complimentary access to the tasting, as well as 15% off Fine Wine Awards Trophy-winning wines purchased on the day using their American Express Card.

The tasting runs from 11am to 2pm on Saturday, 26 September, with no pre-booking required.

Celebrating the Best of South African Wine

The Fine Wine Awards were created to recognise outstanding South African wines on merit, regardless of reputation, packaging or price.

“The thing that makes this tasting particularly exciting is that these wines have earned their place purely on what was in the glass,” said Clifford Collard of Wine Tonight?

“Nearly 1,000 wines were entered this year and tasted blind. The Trophy winners represent some of the wines that really stood out to the judges. Bringing them together at Cavendish gives wine lovers a fantastic opportunity to taste some of South Africa’s best wines side by side and decide on their own favourites.”

The Trophy Winners Tasting is part of the continuing partnership between the Fine Wine Awards, Wine-of-the-Month Club, Wine Tonight? and American Express, aimed at celebrating South African wine while making exceptional locally produced wines more accessible to consumers.

Event details:

• Date: Saturday, 26 September 2026
• Time: 11:00 – 14:00
• Venue: Centre Court, Cavendish Square, Cape Town
• American Express Cardmembers: Complimentary tasting access and 15% off Fine Wine Awards Trophy-winning wines purchased on the day using an American Express Card.

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Cape Town, 22 September 2026: Liberty Promenade is inviting families and young explorers to take part in a school holiday rescue mission after Captain Nova becomes stranded in space following a critical failure aboard his spacecraft. Participants will be tasked with following the clues and helping to bring the missing captain home.

From Friday 25 September to Sunday 4 October 2026, Liberty Promenade will transform the former cinema space in the Food District into a futuristic space-themed experience called Space Rescue: Your Mission Awaits, an immersive school holiday adventure that challenges families and friends to work together to save the mission.

Once aboard, teams will navigate a series of space-themed rooms, crack codes, uncover hidden clues, and complete challenges to bring the spacecraft’s systems back online. Along the way, they will also need to follow the trail left by Captain Nova and figure out how to bring the missing captain home safely.

Crack the Codes and Collect the Stars

Teamwork, problem-solving, and quick thinking will all come into play as young explorers make their way through the spacecraft. The adventure will continue in the Meteor Room, where hidden QR codes will reveal Energy Stars. Collecting these will give explorers the chance to unlock instant prizes, while the biggest challenge will be finding Captain Nova.

Those who successfully complete the mission and find the missing captain will also stand a chance to win a share of R6,000 in Liberty Promenade vouchers. After all that intergalactic problem-solving, successful astronauts may also be rewarded with a surprise ice cream treat from Two Scoops of Happiness.

Prepare for Liftoff

With futuristic décor, interactive challenges and plenty of opportunities to capture the adventure, Space Rescue will offer families an imaginative way to spend time together during the September school holidays.

The experience will run daily from 11:30 to 16:30 from Friday 25 September to Sunday 4 October, with 20-minute time slots available at R20 per person. Bookings can be made at the activation area. Both cash and card payments will be accepted.

Families and friends can assemble their teams and put their observation, teamwork, and problem-solving skills to the test as they attempt to complete the rescue. The question awaiting each crew is simple: can they find Captain Nova and save the mission in time?

For more information on Promenade and its activations, visit libertypromenade.co.za or follow Liberty Promenade on Facebook, Instagram (@libertypromenademall_za), and TikTok (@libertypromenademall).

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Presented in partnership with The Urban Markets, the popular market will take over the Open Deck Parking at Entrance 2, bringing together artisan food, independent makers, local brands and live entertainment for an easy-going evening as the sun goes down.

Spring Flavours and Local Finds

Visitors will be able to browse a varied collection of food, fashion, décor, crafts and handmade goods, with an emphasis on interesting local products and small businesses. Gourmet street food, food trucks and speciality treats will provide plenty of options for dinner, dessert or simply something to snack on while exploring the market.

The warmer weather will also set the scene for an evening designed to be enjoyed at a leisurely pace. Comfortable seating areas will offer a place to settle in with something to eat, while live music and acoustic performances will provide the soundtrack as afternoon turns to evening.

A Friday Night at Bedford

The Sunset Market has become an opportunity to experience Bedford differently, transforming the shopping centre’s open-air parking deck into a lively social space after hours.

“Spring is the perfect time to bring people together, and the Bedford Sunset Market gives our community an opportunity to connect, discover something new, and enjoy Bedford after hours,” says Linda Linnow, General Manager of Bedford. “We’re looking forward to welcoming families and friends for a relaxed Friday evening and a great start to the new season.”

Alongside its mix of food and shopping, the September edition will include family-friendly activities, making it an easy option for friends and families looking to head into the weekend with an evening out.

For more information about the Bedford Sunset Market, visit Bedford’s website or follow @bedfordcentre on social media for updates.

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Johannesburg, 25 August 2026: Johannesburg is stepping into spring with sunnier skies, warmer temperatures and plenty of reasons to enjoy the outdoors. Melrose Arch will celebrate the arrival of the new season with family-friendly activities, outdoor dining, live music, market shopping and one of rugby’s biggest rivalries across the weekend of Sept. 5 and 6.

With its open-air Piazza, Square, and High Street, Melrose Arch comes into its own at this time of year, offering an idyllic setting to linger over lunch, browse the stores, treat the kids, or simply enjoy a sunny afternoon out.

Spring is also the perfect opportunity to refresh your wardrobe, explore new beauty and wellness tips, and freshen up your home with new linen and homeware. So, with Melrose Arch’s stores offering a curated mix of upmarket fashion, beauty, health and wellness, homeware and more, it really is a fabulous spot to visit.

Springtime Family Fun on the Piazza

The Spring Funzone will transform the Piazza into a playful destination for families from 10 am to 5 pm on both Saturday and Sunday, in partnership with Bungee and Clamber Club. Young visitors can look forward to plenty of energetic entertainment, while Clamber Club favourite Jog the Frog will make special appearances on Sunday, 6 September, at 11 am and 2 pm. The trampoline bungee will also be open on Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm, offering an exhilarating spring adventure for children weighing up to 70 kg.

There are plenty of reasons to stay a little longer. The restaurants around the Piazza are ideal for long, leisurely lunches and relaxed outdoor dining, while colourful treats from Nicole’s Macaroons add a sumptuous touch to the weekend. Swirl Smash & Rolled Ice Cream and La Cremosa provide the perfect excuse for an ice cream or gelato stop in the sunshine.

Families can also discover Bespoke Babies, the newest addition to the Melrose Arch retail mix, offering beautiful clothing for little ones, including charming matching looks for moms and children.

Markets, Music and Spring Discoveries

Lower High Street will take on a market-day atmosphere with the Spring Market, presented in partnership with The Melrose Market, from 11 am to 5 pm on Saturday and Sunday. Here, visitors can browse an eclectic collection of sweets and treats, organic teas, Polish deli meats, beautiful homeware, handbags, bespoke jewellery, educational toys, hand-knitted soft toys, virgin flavoured and infused olive oil, decoupage homeware, cushions and baskets, alongside plenty of other unique finds.

Wedgewood, a new offering opening soon on Lower High Street, will also join the Spring Market, giving visitors another way to shop for gorgeous nougat from one of the precinct’s imminent arrivals.

Over on The Square, Simple Stories will provide the soundtrack to the weekend with live entertainment from 1 pm to 4 pm on both days. On Saturday, the renowned vocal quartet The Clorettes from The Royal Countess Zingara will add a little extra glamour to the afternoon with a special live performance from 2 pm.

Adding to the Spring atmosphere, pretty Edison lights will illuminate The Square while colourful lanterns will bring a seasonal touch to key areas throughout the precinct. With beautiful architecture, open-air spaces, and plenty of dreamy, Instagrammable corners along the way, this weekend will be one to capture and remember.

Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry Screening

As the afternoon stretches into evening on Saturday 5 September, attention will turn to one of sport’s greatest rivalries when South Africa takes on New Zealand at 5:40 pm. Powered by BYD, Melrose Arch will host a premium viewing experience on The Square, with the match between the Springboks and the All Blacks broadcast on large LED screens.

Restaurants will extend seating into the surrounding area, creating a lively setting where rugby fans can enjoy the action along with great food, drinks and hospitality. Visitors are encouraged to book a table at their favourite restaurant and settle in for the match.

Whether it is an ice cream in the sunshine, a treasure discovered at the market, an afternoon of live music, a long lunch with the family, or cheering on the Springboks as the sun goes down, Melrose Arch is ready to make the first weekend of Spring one to savour.

For more information on Melrose Arch and its activations, visit melrosearch.co.za or follow @MelroseArch on social media.

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Pietermaritzburg, 11 August 2026: Liberty Midlands Mall’s ARTopia 2026, themed “Ocean Odyssey”, has drawn to a close following a vibrant celebration of creativity and young artistic talent. The record-breaking exhibition brought together 23 schools from Pietermaritzburg and the Midlands, with learners from Grades 1 to 7 contributing an impressive 652 artworks, making this the biggest ARTopia campaign to date.

Throughout the exhibition, the mall’s Centre Court was transformed into a vibrant gallery of underwater imagination. From colourful coral reefs and marine life to mythical sea creatures, hidden treasures and ocean adventures, the 652 artworks demonstrated the remarkable creativity and individuality of the region’s young artists.

Celebrating our 2026 Winners

Following the public voting process, three schools emerged as the winners of ARTopia 2026, each winning R15 000, sharing a total prize pool of R45 000.

Liberty Midlands Mall congratulates:

• Category 1 – Springhaven Primary School – represented by Tumoho Mbatha
• Category 2 – Allandale Primary School – represented by Azrah Dawood
• Category 3 – Scottsville Primary School – represented by Ayanelisa Gwala

Special congratulations go to all learners whose creativity captured the imagination of shoppers, as well as their schools, teachers and families who encouraged and supported their artistic journeys. The three overall winning artworks will now live beyond the exhibition as they are transformed into exclusive ARTopia merchandise, including colouring books, pencil cases and sling bags, which will be introduced later this year.

While three schools ultimately took home the top prizes, ARTopia 2026 was a celebration of every learner who participated. The incredible response reflects the depth of young creative talent within Pietermaritzburg and the Midlands, as well as the enthusiasm of local schools to provide learners with opportunities to express themselves through art.

Lawrence Joubert, General Manager of Liberty Midlands Mall, says this year’s response demonstrated how ARTopia continues to grow as a platform for young creativity. “ARTopia 2026 has been an incredible celebration of our young artists and the schools that support them. To have 23 schools participate and receive 652 artworks is something we are immensely proud of. We congratulate our winning schools and learners, but we also celebrate every child who contributed an artwork and helped bring Ocean Odyssey to life. Their creativity, imagination and enthusiasm made this year’s exhibition truly special.”

Liberty Midlands Mall also extends its appreciation to the schools, educators, parents, families and shoppers who supported ARTopia 2026. A special thank you goes to Exclusive Books, Execuspecs, Vodacom, McDonald’s, SD Pather and Wicked Karting for generously sponsoring gifts for the winners and runners-up. Their support helped make ARTopia 2026 an even more memorable and rewarding experience for the young artists.

From encouraging learners to participate to visiting the exhibition and casting votes, the community played an important role in making this year’s campaign the biggest ARTopia yet. The conclusion of the Ocean Odyssey exhibition may mark the end of this chapter. Still, the creativity of its young artists will continue to be reflected in the winning designs and the next phase of the project.

For more information on Liberty Midlands Mall and upcoming events, visit midlandsmall.co.za or follow @libertymidlandsmall on Facebook or Instagram.

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Johannesburg, 14 July 2026: Bedford Centre is marking Nelson Mandela Month by allowing shoppers to make a genuine difference through two community initiatives that support local charities and bring people together through simple acts of kindness.

Throughout July, visitors can help create handmade blankets for those in need as part of the return of the much-loved Hooked on Kindness campaign, before browsing for their next great read at the annual Germiston SPCA Book Fair, where every purchase helps care for vulnerable animals.

Stitching Together a Warmer Winter

From 13 to 19 July, Bedford Centre will once again partner with the dedicated volunteers from Edenvale KnitsWits for “Hooked on Kindness.” The stand, located on the upper level opposite Spur, invites shoppers to view beautiful handcrafted blankets, learn something new and contribute towards a cause that brings warmth to those who need it most.

Whether you’re an experienced knitter, a keen crocheter or someone who has always wanted to give it a try, all are welcome. Visitors can donate knitted or crocheted squares, purchase wool for the KnitsWits team, take a seat and learn the basics from the volunteers.

Every square crafted this week will become part of a handmade blanket that will help keep vulnerable members of the community warm during the colder months.

Books That Give Back

The spirit of giving continues on Friday, 25 July, when the popular Germiston SPCA Book Fair returns to Bedford Centre from 10h00 to 14h00.

Taking place on the Lower Level opposite Pick n Pay, the book fair offers hundreds of pre-loved books from just R10 each. From bestselling novels and children’s favourites to cookbooks, biographies and unexpected treasures, something is waiting to be discovered on every table.

Every book sold helps raise vital funds for the Germiston SPCA, supporting its ongoing work rescuing, caring for and protecting animals in the local community.

“Nelson Mandela Month reminds us that making a difference doesn’t always require grand gestures,” said Bedford Management. “Sometimes it starts with learning a new skill, donating a ball of wool or buying a second-hand book. These are simple ways for people to come together, support local organisations and help make a real difference in the lives of others.”

Whether spending a few minutes learning to crochet, contributing towards a blanket or taking home a pre-loved book, Bedford Centre invites shoppers to become part of a month of generosity, connection and community.

For more information about Bedford Centre, its stores and upcoming events, visit Bedford’s website bedfordcentre.com  or follow @bedfordcentre on social media.

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KwaZulu-Natal, 9 July 2026:Gateway Theatre of Shopping is giving families every reason to make the most of the winter school holidays with an exciting selection of entertainment experiences. As KwaZulu-Natal’s premier entertainment destination, Gateway offers countless opportunities to play, explore and create lasting memories throughout the school break.

Whether families are looking for action-packed activities, mind-bending experiences or a chance to slow down and enjoy a meal together, Gateway offers something for every kind of school holiday adventure, all conveniently located in one destination.

A World of Adventure Awaits

Families visiting Gateway this holiday will have plenty of opportunities to dive into enthralling experiences. Visitors can test their strength, agility and determination at Total Ninja, explore gravity-defying exhibits and optical illusions at the Museum of Illusions, or jump, climb and play at Be Up Park.

Those looking for extra excitement can take on the twists and turns at Indy Karting, while movie lovers can settle in for the latest family-friendly films at Nu Metro Cinemas, including its dedicated Kiddies Cinema designed especially for younger audiences.

Adding to the excitement this holiday, Gateway is giving shoppers the chance to win one of three incredible “Fun in the 031” family experiences. Each prize package unlocks entertainment for two, featuring some of Gateway’s most popular attractions, including Indy Karting, Nu Metro, Be Up Park and Funtubbles, valued at over R3 400 each. To enter, visit Gateway’s Facebook and Instagram pages, like the post and tag a favourite Gateway entertainment destination in the comments.

This is the perfect opportunity to win a day packed with action, adventure and unforgettable family moments.

Meet the Minions This July

Adding even more excitement, families will also have the chance to meet two mischievous fan favourites, characters Henry and James, during a special Minions Meet & Greet on  Saturday, 11 July from 11:00 to 19:00 in the food court. Young fans can look forward to memorable photo opportunities and plenty of playful fun with the beloved characters, as well as the movie Minions & Monsters, releasing at the NuMetro cinema.

“Gateway has long been recognised as a destination where families can spend meaningful time together, and we are delighted to offer an incredible range of diverse experiences under one roof,” said Ayesha Sewbaran, Marketing Manager at Gateway Theatre of Shopping. “This winter holiday, we are inviting families to explore, play and create memorable moments together while discovering something fun at every turn.”

By bringing together a mix of active play, immersive entertainment and family-friendly experiences, Gateway continues to offer visitors far more than a traditional shopping trip during the school holidays.

For more information about Gateway, its stores, experiences and promotions, visit gatewayworld.co.za or follow the centre on social media on Instagram.com.

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Cape Town, 2 July 2026: Liberty Promenade’s Power of Sport campaign has reached an exciting milestone with the announcement of its Top 13 community sporting organisations. Selected from numerous nominations, these finalists are making a real difference by using sport to inspire, uplift and strengthen their local communities through passion, dedication and unwavering commitment.

Launched in the lead-up to Mandela Day 2026, the campaign set out to celebrate the unsung heroes of community sport, the clubs, organisations, coaches and volunteers who go beyond the game to create opportunities, build confidence, inspire hope and provide safe spaces for young people to thrive.

The response from the public was overwhelming, with nominations pouring in from the community, highlighting organisations that are making a meaningful difference through soccer, rugby, netball, athletics, dance, tennis, karate, fitness programmes and other sporting initiatives. Each nominee represents the transformative power of sport and its ability to unite communities, develop future leaders and create lasting social impact.

Finalists Announced

The Top 13 finalists have now been selected and are being showcased in a special in-mall photographic exhibition located in the Food District. The exhibition brings each organisation’s story to life through powerful imagery and inspiring narratives, giving shoppers a glimpse into the lives being transformed through their projects and programmes.

The thirteen finalists are:

1. 9Miles Project
   Using the power of surfing to build confidence, resilience, life skills, and brighter futures for youth in coastal communities.
2. House of Power Karate Academy
   Empowering young people through karate by developing discipline, confidence, self-defence skills, and strong character.
3. Westridge Yankees
   Keeping young athletes active year-round through grassroots baseball and softball development in the community.
4. Play Sport4Life
   Creating opportunities for children and youth through sport, leadership development, and life-changing mentorship programmes.
5. Lentegeur Volleyball Club
   Nurturing leadership, creating a sense of belonging, and motivating young people to realise their full potential through volleyball.
6. Just Planting Seeds
   Transforming lives through rugby by creating safe spaces, building leaders, and empowering youth to overcome challenges.
7. Westridge Football Club
   Developing football talent while promoting teamwork, discipline, leadership, and positive community involvement.
8. Red Rovers FC
   Combining football development with life-skills and discipline programmes to help young people thrive on and off the field.
9. Home Fighters Netball Club
   Providing a safe and supportive environment where girls and women can develop confidence, strengthen teamwork, and achieve sporting excellence.
10. Tafelzucht
    Bringing communities together through soccer, netball, and cricket while creating opportunities for youth development and education.
11. Karate Satori
    Building stronger, safer communities through karate, self-defense training, youth mentorship, and nutritional support.
12. Woodlands Archery Academy
    Introducing youth to the focus, discipline, and precision of archery while promoting positive community engagement.
13. Khaye Gymnastics Club
    Developing future champions through rope skipping while creating pathways to provincial and national sporting success.

Community Invited to Vote

Now, the community has the opportunity to decide who will be crowned Liberty Promenade’s Power of Sport Champion 2026. Visitors are encouraged to explore the exhibition, learn about the incredible work being done by each finalist and cast their vote for the organisation they believe is making the greatest impact.

Voting is open from 7 July 2026 at Liberty Promenade Mall, where visitors can cast their vote by submitting a till slip of any value, clearly marked with their contact details on the back, into the entry boxes at the exhibition. The finalist who receives the most votes will be awarded up to R20 000 to support their work. Voting closes on 27 July 2026. Two shoppers who vote will also stand a chance to win a R 1000 Liberty Promenade shopping voucher each. The winners will be announced on 31 July 2026 as part of Liberty Promenade’s Mandela Day celebrations.

“Sport has the unique ability to inspire, unite and transform lives,” says Liberty Promenade General Manager, Brenda Bibby. “Through this campaign, we wanted to celebrate the organisations that are using sport as a force for good and give our community the opportunity to recognise the incredible work they do every day.”

On selected days, the finalist organisations will be present in the Food District, providing an opportunity for visitors to meet their representatives, learn more about their programmes, and discover how they are making a difference in local communities. Be sure to follow the mall’s social media channels for the latest dates and times and come show your support for these incredible organisations.

For Liberty Promenade, the campaign is about more than recognising sporting excellence; it is about celebrating resilience, community spirit and the people who are creating brighter futures, one game, one training session and one young life at a time.

For more information on the finalists and campaign, visit libertypromenade.co.za or follow Liberty Promenade on Facebook, Instagram @libertypromenademall_za and TikTok @libertypromenademall.

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Corporate events are undergoing a major shift as businesses move away from rigid, programme-driven gatherings in favour of experiences designed to create genuine human connection. In the wake of COVID-19, attendees are increasingly seeking events that feel more personal, immersive and emotionally engaging rather than purely informational.

The Role of Modern Technology in Live Events

Technology has become a key part of this evolution, with hybrid formats, AI-driven insights and immersive production helping to enhance audience interaction rather than replace it. Behind these experiences are event professionals who balance creativity with problem-solving to ensure every detail works seamlessly.

“For me, the most rewarding part is seeing strangers walk into a room and leave as friends. That’s when you know an event has done more than just deliver content, it has touched people,” says Pierre Mornet, Marketing and Events Director at Event Wizards.

Shifting Expectations and Sustainable Gatherings

After the stillness of COVID-19, expectations have shifted. Attendees crave warmth, authenticity and environments that feel alive. They want conversations that flow naturally, experiences that feel personal and stories that touch the heart.

Even sustainability has become part of the narrative. Greener practices, mindful choices and respect for the planet show that unforgettable moments can also leave behind a legacy of care. Behind the scenes, there is a quiet choreography, teams extinguishing fires before anyone notices, ensuring that what guests see is effortless, even when reality is anything but.

The Future of the Experiential Events Industry

The future of events is smaller, more intentional and deeply meaningful. Digital platforms will continue to evolve, but the irreplaceable energy of being together, the laughter, the shared silences, the collective heartbeat, remains at the core.

“At the core, people are emotionally driven creatures and will always need an environment that feeds and taps into that emotional need,” adds Mornet. “The digital world cannot provide this to a point where it feels truly real.”

Event Wizards continues to evolve alongside the changing needs of the events industry, with a focus on creating meaningful experiences that connect people.

About Event Wizards

Founded in 2004, Event Wizards has grown from a small team with big dreams into one of South Africa’s trusted event partners. With a blend of creativity, resilience and heart, they have reimagined what events can be, transforming them from formal gatherings into meaningful experiences that connect people.

Their work spans everything from décor and catering to technical execution, but at the core lies a simple promise: to craft moments that move us and memories that last.

The post Human Connection Is Reshaping the Future of Corporate Events appeared first on Alt News Network.

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.

The Grand Finale Production at SunBet Arena

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, recognised by The American Guild of Artists, ensuring a world-class showcase of fashion, entertainment, and performance.

Securing International Modeling Opportunities

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.

Yolanda Monyai: A Success Story of Empowerment

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 become one of the most recognisable 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.

Building Reputation and Changing Lives

According to Johan Ungerer, the Next OMSA Founder and CEO, reputation is built through action, consistency, and a 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.”

Contestant Workshops and Skills Development

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.

Celebrating South Africa’s Creative Economy

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.

A Legacy of Growth and Expansion

From humble beginnings in a hotel conference room with only 20 finalists, The Next OMSA has grown into a nationally recognised 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 organisation remains focused on expanding opportunities for South African talent, strengthening international partnerships, and ensuring local models continue to compete successfully on the global stage.

Ticket Information for the Grand Finale

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.

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