Héleen Fourie (30) has been selected as one of 100 semi-finalists in the Mrs South Africa 2026 programme, earning her place during a live casting event held at Clearwater Mall in Roodepoort.

Héleen, a former teacher and mother of two, says the opportunity is far more than a pageant title, “Becoming a semi-finalist is a platform to amplify my commitment to education and wellness. This journey is about transforming opportunity into service.”

Mrs South Africa is widely regarded as one of the country’s most demanding empowerment and leadership programmes. Semi-finalists follow an intensive schedule that includes workshops, mentorship, media training, and community work, all aimed at shaping women who can positively impact their communities.

CEO Joani Jacobs describes the programme as transformative, saying it helps women rediscover their strengths and pursue their goals with purpose.

From classroom to community upliftment

Héleen brings years of experience in education and community upliftment to the platform. She began teaching in 2014 before leaving the profession to support her son, who has ADHD and autism and required specialised attention not available in mainstream schooling. What started as homeschooling soon grew into a tutoring initiative assisting learners across Middelburg who struggle in overcrowded classrooms.

Her long-term goal is to open a small, nurturing private school offering personalised support.

Leadership through service

Alongside her education work, Héleen and her family run outreach projects that provide clothing, food and essential items to vulnerable families in Middelburg.
“Every challenge I’ve faced has shaped me into someone who believes leadership is service.”

Balancing her responsibilities at home, her tutoring work, and the demands of the Mrs SA programme, Héleen says she looks forward to what lies ahead.
“I step into this year with gratitude and anticipation. My hope is to create a lasting impact for our youth and communities.”

Héleen hopes her journey inspires women and the youth, “Don’t wait for the perfect moment. Show up as you are, your time is now.”

• Additional castings will be held in Durban and Bloemfontein before the next round of finalist selections on July 2 and 3.