Byline: Refeloe Letsoisa

29 September 2026

At just 07 years old, eMbalenhle-born Thandolwethu Nompumelelo Khumalo is already making her mark in the modelling world after being crowned Queen of Miss Junior Primary Stars 2026.

The young beauty was crowned during the Mr and Miss Excellence and Primary Stars 2026 final show, held at the Sasol Recreation Centre in eMbalenhle on Saturday, 26 September 2026.

Thandolwethu, a learner at Shapeve Primary School, also walked away with the Public Choice title, making the evening even more memorable for the young model and her family.

Describing herself as brave, kind and friendly, Thandolwethu said she was inspired to enter the competition after seeing an opportunity to challenge herself and grow through modelling.

Her modelling journey began in May this year, motivated by her love for dressing up, wearing makeup and walking on stage.

“Modelling is definitely my confidence booster. This does not mean that I suffer from low self-confidence because of certain factors, including bullying and others, but seeing the stage makes me happy and more confident,” she said.

While the crown has brought her into the spotlight, Thandolwethu remains focused on her education and believes that academic success should go hand in hand with her modelling ambitions.

“In the next five years, I see myself as a well-known model, especially in my community. Attending school also means a lot to me because I believe that education is the key to success,” she said.

The young queen also has a message for other girls who may be afraid to step outside their comfort zones.

She encouraged young girls to take opportunities, even when there is a possibility of failure, saying it is better to try and fail than to never try at all.

For Thandolwethu, winning two titles so early in her modelling journey is not the destination, but the beginning.

“I started this journey earlier this year and already I can see my achievements, which makes me more excited and passionate about this whole process in modelling. This is my time to actually learn more about modelling and interact with people who will help me succeed in my journey,” she said.

With confidence growing and two titles already secured, Thandolwethu has vowed to enter more competitions, continue learning and make her parents proud.