AFDA proudly congratulates alumna Nongcebo Mngadi on being selected as one of the Top 24 finalists in the Miss South Africa 2026 competition. Her selection celebrates her achievements as a filmmaker and storyteller, and also her commitment to using creativity as a catalyst for social change. The Miss South Africa Top 24 finalists were announced by the Miss South Africa Organisation in June 2026, recognising a diverse group of young women driving meaningful impact in their communities.
A graduate of AFDA Cape Town with a Bachelor of Arts in Motion Picture, Nongcebo has spent almost a decade building an impressive career across South Africa’s film and television industry. Her work has contributed to productions for Netflix, Showmax, SABC and e.tv, where she has developed expertise in production leadership, research and creative strategy. Through every project, she has remained committed to one belief: that storytelling has the power to transform societies.
Growing up in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, in a household of 14 people, Nongcebo describes herself as “a salad bowl of personalities”, an upbringing that shaped her into the confident, outspoken and people-centred creative she is today. At AFDA, she refined her creative voice and developed the professional foundation that has enabled her to thrive in one of South Africa’s most competitive industries.
Inspired by legendary South African cultural icons Gcina Mhlophe and Miriam Makeba, Nongcebo views filmmaking as far more than entertainment. For her, every story is an opportunity to preserve African identity, challenge injustice and inspire hope. This philosophy has guided both her professional career and her growing advocacy work.
As a Miss South Africa 2026 Top 24 finalist, Nongcebo is using the platform to champion women’s health, drawing from her own experience after being diagnosed with Stage 2 Endometriosis, fibroids and cysts. She advocates for greater awareness of gynaecological health and supports bringing conversations around the Menstrual Health Rights Bill to the forefront. Alongside this, she is passionate about youth employment, creating pathways that connect young creatives with sustainable opportunities within South Africa’s creative economy.
Her community work extends to mentoring young women, supporting NGO initiatives and leading outreach programmes centred on dignity, education and collaboration. Whether behind the camera, in the boardroom or on a national stage, Nongcebo remains dedicated to empowering others through creativity and meaningful leadership.
Reflecting on her journey, Nongcebo credits AFDA with playing a pivotal role in her success.
“AFDA played an instrumental role in shaping my creative thinking and professional foundation, and it is incredibly meaningful to celebrate this milestone with the institution that contributed to my growth. I believe it is also a wonderful opportunity to showcase the achievements of AFDA alumni and inspire aspiring filmmakers and creatives who dream of following a similar path.”
Her journey shows AFDA’s commitment to developing graduates who combine creative excellence with purpose-driven leadership. As she continues her Miss South Africa journey, Nongcebo represents a new generation of African creatives who are redefining what it means to lead through storytelling, innovation and service.
AFDA congratulates Nongcebo Mngadi on this outstanding achievement and wishes her every success as she continues her journey towards the Miss South Africa 2026 crown.