When Polite Nyoni and Rubina Burnham were crowned the 2026 Mr and Miss Alexandra King and Queen, what mattered was not the sashes on their shoulders or the glittering crown on Burnham’s head, but the responsibility that comes with them.

According to the organisation’s founder and CEO, Nomsa Motha, the crown means one thing: service.

“We believe that being a king or queen goes beyond wearing a crown; it is about leadership, commitment and giving back,” Motha said.

Read more: Alexandra model Rubina Burnham collects sanitary pads for local learners

That was the thinking behind the search for this year’s contestants. “We were looking for contestants who are passionate about serving their community and making a positive difference in Alexandra,” she said.

As the evening settled in at the pageant’s grand finale at East Bank Hall on October 31, Nyoni and Burnham received the top honours. Themba Mthethwa and Mighty Maluleke were crowned first prince and princess, while Mzwakhe Maseko and Naledi Seafi took the titles of second prince and princess.

Burnham said the moment her name was called felt like an answered prayer. “I had so much joy in my heart that I couldn’t hold back, and tears started rolling down,” she said.

Nyoni, who stood beside her, said the title felt like proof that his hard work had paid off. “The title means a lot to me as it is proof that anything is possible as long as you believe and trust your abilities,” Nyoni added.

Also read: Model determined to use pageantry to empower youth

Burnham believes the title gives her the platform she needs to increase the visibility of her initiatives, and to connect and collaborate with more schools and reach more children.

Nyoni said he plans to use his reign to inspire young people to take part in social, environmental and economic activities that can reduce teenage pregnancy, crime and substance abuse. He also wants to speak out on social media against gender inequality in modelling.

The pageant continues its record of empowering young people in Alexandra, giving them opportunities to grow, build their leadership skills and confidence, and deepen their involvement in the community through service.

The rewards go beyond personal development. The king and queen each received R1 000 in cash, and the king also received a Boston bursary.

“We hope Mr and Miss Alexandra inspires young people to believe in themselves, recognise their potential and understand the importance of serving their communities,” Motha said.

Beyond the glitter of the grand finale, the new titleholders prepare to tackle local challenges that young people face in Alexandra.

Follow us on our WhatsApp channel, Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates!