Chriské Schwirzer (19) has been crowned Female Grand Champion Model of the World 2026 at the World Championships of Performing Arts in Las Vegas. The competition started on July 12, and Schwirzer returned to South Africa on July 24 as the holder of her new title.

The former Curro Nelspruit pupil and Miss Teen SA 2025 represented South Africa at the premier global event for aspiring performers and entertainers.

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Held annually near Hollywood, California, the international competition brought together talent from more than 70 countries, where Schwirzer competed in the drama, singing and modelling divisions. She advanced to the semi-finals in drama and modelling before convincing judges of her confidence and beauty in the modelling finals.

Gold medal opens global stage

To qualify for WCOPA, Schwirzer had to win a gold medal at the South African Championships of Performing Arts (SACOPA).

SACOPA congratulated Schwirzer on her achievement:

“Congratulations on this phenomenal achievement, Chriské! Your confidence, elegance, professionalism and unwavering dedication have earned you the highest international honour. You have represented South Africa with grace and excellence, making our nation incredibly proud.”

Her mother, Anjelien, told Lowvelder that words could not describe how proud the family was. “This is a magnificent achievement,” she said.

Schwirzer is a first-year student at North-West University in Potchefstroom and is studying a BCom in Management Sciences, with marketing and tourism as her majors.

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She competed in Miss Tourism World in Changsha, China, last year, where she was crowned second runner-up.

Student thanks modelling agency

She proudly credited Timeless Modelling & Deportment Academy as the foundation of her success, saying that without them, she would never have achieved the accomplishments she celebrates today.

“Timeless Models wasn’t just my stepping stone – it was the place that shaped me into the model I am today. They believed in me, guided me, and gave me the skills and confidence to pursue my dreams. Without Timeless, none of these achievements would have been possible.”

Chriské also expressed her heartfelt gratitude to Ronell Joubert for her outstanding stage coaching, Noelè McMaster for her unwavering support throughout her international journey, and CEO Jacques Lombard, founder and mentor of the academy, for creating a family where every model is encouraged to dream big and succeed.