Loud cheers swept through the wider Newcastle pageantry community as 13-year-old Zona Zulu returned home wearing the coveted Miss Pre-Teen Globe International 2026 crown after an outstanding performance at the international pageant in Aguascalientes, Mexico, from July 19-26.

Zona’s journey to international success began when Miss Teen Excellency South Africa appointed her to the prestigious title of Miss Pre-Teen Globe South Africa.

The appointment earned her the honour of representing South Africa in the Pre-Teen category at the globally recognised Miss Teen Globe International pageant, a platform that celebrates confidence, leadership, culture and community impact among young ambassadors.

Impressing on the international stage

Competing against exceptional contestants from around the world, Zona impressed the judges with her confidence, eloquence, cultural pride and leadership qualities.

Throughout the week-long competition, she proudly showcased South Africa’s heritage while building friendships with delegates from different nations before ultimately being crowned Miss Pre-Teen Globe International 2026. She also received the Miss Congeniality special award.

“I’m incredibly honoured to bring this crown home to South Africa,” Zona said.

“This victory belongs to every person who believed in me, encouraged me and supported my dream. I hope to inspire other young people to believe that – with hard work, determination and self-belief – anything is possible.”

Her parents described the achievement as a proud and emotional moment.

“Watching Zona carry our country’s flag with such dignity and humility has been the greatest privilege. She remained true to herself throughout the competition and represented South Africa with excellence. We are grateful to everyone who walked this journey with her.”

Using her platform to inspire

Known for her personal motto, ‘Your limitation is only your imagination’, Zona has become an inspiration to many young people.

Beyond pageantry, she is recognised for promoting education, youth leadership, kindness and community service, proving that a crown carries both honour and responsibility.

Her achievement has been celebrated by family, friends, educators, sponsors, community members and supporters across Newcastle and beyond, with many describing Zona as a shining example of what young South Africans can accomplish when given opportunities to excel.

As she begins her reign as Miss Pre-Teen Globe International 2026, Zona is committed to using her platform to empower children, promote positive leadership and proudly fly the South African flag wherever her journey takes her.

From Newcastle to the international stage, Zona Zulu has written her name into history, bringing home a world title and inspiring a generation to dream without limits.

Follow Zona’s socials:

• Facebook: Zona Zulu
• Instagram: Zona_Unique
• TikTok: @zonaunique

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