Mbombela’s Salomé Nel wins Best Prop at 2026 Championship of Cosplay
The 25-year-old artist impressed judges in her professional category debut despite experiencing an on-stage costume malfunction.
Mbombela resident Salomé Nel (25) earned top honours for her pinewood staff and rucksack at the 2026 Championship of Cosplay, held from September 24 to September 27 at Comic Con Africa in Johannesburg.
Nel, who holds a degree in motion design and illustration and is an aspiring concept design artist, was awarded ‘Best Prop’ for her depiction of Monoco, a character from the French video game Clair Obscur: Expedition 33.
Despite some difficulties she encountered, Nel still shone on stage and made a memorable impact on both the crowd and the judges.
Nel was one of about 60 contestants and 30 qualifiers.
While Nel received one award, feedback from the judges informed her that she was considered for multiple categories. This was the first year of the championship division, also known as the professional category.
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From casual category to professional debut
In 2025, Nel participated in the casual division with her version of Vi from League of Legends and took home gold. This was only her second time competing.
Nel developed an interest in cosplay and costume design during her studies at Open Window, when the institute started a Cosplay Club in her third year in 2023. Her first costume was Vanny from Five Nights at Freddy’s.
Although she has made a few costumes, one that will always stand out to her is Warwick, a wolf-like character from League of Legends that she made for her brother, Andrew Nel. She views the costume as a milestone in her process, but also one from which she can learn the most.
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Community support helps cosplayer overcome stage mishap
Her favourite aspects of cosplay are the detailing process of costume making and the community that surrounds it.
“When my costume malfunctioned, people were quick to help me on stage. Other cosplayers are also always eager to help each other, especially someone new to the scene, to help them reach their full potential,” said Nel.
Nel hopes to return to the Championship of Cosplay in 2027 with improved skills and to bring back another award.
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