Umtentweni’s Tamaryn Price was crowned Face of National Bloom South Africa 2026, while 13-year-old Minenhle Ntshangase from Gamalakhe claimed the Miss Teen National Bloom South Africa title.

It was a double celebration for the South Coast at the second annual National Bloom South Africa Pageant, held at a gala event in Ballito on October 3.

Tamaryn is a title holder and one of the CEOs of fashion brand My Normal, while Minenhle is a Grade 7 learner at Marburg Primary School.

Adding another South Coast connection to the achievement, students from Esayidi Fashion School sponsored the garments Minenhle wore at the pageant.

Minenhle said it was an amazing experience. “I know a crown fades and a sash gets old, but purpose lasts forever. I knew the stage was a platform – a platform to speak, to give a voice to the voiceless and to tell them that they are worthy and capable.”

Tamaryn is no stranger to the pageant stage.

The prominent South Coast model has represented the region at national level, including being selected as a finalist for Miss Grand South Africa and crowned first princess at Miss KZN.

Her talents extend beyond modelling, with multiple gold medals at the Talent Africa regional performing arts competition.

She has also made headlines for breaking stereotypes, having worked as an apprentice mechanic at Bates Isuzu in Shelly Beach before moving into a warranty clerk role in the automotive industry.

Her latest achievement is particularly meaningful, as Tamaryn is passionate about empowering people, helping animals and encouraging others to believe in themselves and never give up on their dreams.

“I am also passionate about supporting children with academic disabilities and showing them that they can achieve anything they put their minds to.”

Tamaryn hopes to create greater awareness and understanding of different academic disabilities and use her platform through My Normal to empower young people to overcome challenges and pursue their dreams.

“This national title now gives me an even bigger platform to continue my work of building people up, creating awareness and inspiring others to never give up,” she said.

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