The countdown has begun for the highly anticipated Mr Gay World South-Africa 2026 Grand Finale, taking place on 16 May, 2026, at the Barnyard Theatre at Menlyn Park Shopping Centre in Pretoria.
As the official national platform feeding into the international Mr Gay World competition, Mr Gay World South-Africa serves as a stage for queer leadership, visibility, advocacy, and talent. The winner will go on to represent South Africa globally, carrying the country’s message of inclusion and pride onto the international stage.
Headed by Gert Claassen-Smit, Mr Gay World South-Africa aims to provide safe and affirming spaces where LGBTQIA+ individuals can thrive authentically while developing confidence, leadership, and community impact.
Following the close of entries on April 24, the organisation officially unveiled its Top 10 finalists, who will compete for the national title:
- Charl-Jaquairdo Van Helsdingen
- Gevaughn Brandt
- Jacques Gous
- Justin Visagie
- Siyabonga Shabalala
- Thabang Duiker
- Thapelo Masongwa
- Thembelani Jonga
- Wickus Bouwer
- Xolani Mhlongo
This year’s pageant theme, “Fire and Ashes,” symbolises renewal, resilience, and rebirth following turbulent years for the competition.
Mr Gay World South-Africa Marketing & Operations Co-ordinator Leon Schoonraad explained the deeper meaning behind the theme.
“What the theme ‘Fire and Ashes’ means is that we are recreating a whole new pageant, raising it up from the ashes like a phoenix shining bright… and to work hand in hand with the Mr Gay World Organisation,” said Schoonraad.
He added that audiences can expect a spectacular evening filled with entertainment, international collaborations, and high-end production values.
“It’s going to be a big night. There’s going to be a lot of artists and a few surprises. We’re having people flown in from all over the world who are going to be helping with the pageant and attending the evening. The visuals, the stage production, everything is phenomenal. We’ve planned months into this, and it’s really going to be a big showstopper,” he said.
Schoonraad also revealed that internationally acclaimed creatives have joined the production team to help elevate the experience.
“We’ve got choreographers flying in from the Philippines who are going to choreograph our contestants. We’ve got amazing costumes lined up, sponsored by designers like LushWear, and designer Don Cristobal from the Philippines has also sent our contestants designer clothing. So it’s really going to be a big evening.”
With a renewed vision, international flair, and a fresh generation of contestants ready to take centre stage, the Mr Gay World South-Africa 2026 Grand Finale promises to mark a bold new chapter for the pageant.
Tickets for the Grand Finale on 16 May in Pretoria are now available through Howler.
