Ifafa Beach beauty crowned Queen of the Universe
Nikhita van der Linden wants young girls to know that they don't have to live in a city to achieve something extraordinary.
Nikhita van der Linden (19) from Ifafa Beach, Club Marina (under Umdoni) is being celebrated for bringing recognition to the South Coast after being crowned Queen of the Universe 2026 on the international stage.
For Nikhita and her family, the achievement is not only a moment of immense pride but a story about dreams, determination and how far a young woman from a small coastal community can go.
Nikhita’s journey has been about building confidence, developing discipline, giving back and using her platform to encourage others to believe in themselves.
Reflecting on her international victory at Medley House in Johannesburg on August 29, Nikhita says the moment is one she will never forget.
“This is something I will carry with me for the rest of my life,” she said.
“It is a dream I worked incredibly hard for and to finally hear my name called was overwhelming. I am so grateful to everyone who believed in me and supported me throughout this journey.”
Coming from a small South Coast community, Nikhita wants young girls to know that they don’t have to come from a big city to achieve something extraordinary. She hopes that her achievement will inspire other young people on the South Coast to pursue their own ambitions.
Nikhita also wishes to recognise the places that helped shape her – one of them being New Hanover Preparatory School, which she attended from Grade RRR to Grade 7.
Her family would love for her to visit schools and share her journey with learners, as she once sat in classrooms and walked corridors just like they do.
“I was once one of those little girls walking through those school gates, and it would be so special to show them what is possible. I want them to see the crown, but more importantly, I want them to understand that the crown represents hard work, sacrifice and determination behind it,” she added.
The international title-holder already has an impressive pageant career. These include Miss Junior South Africa 2026, Miss Junior South Africa KZN 2026, Miss Junior South Africa Universe 2026 and Miss Umhlanga 2026.
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