MBOMBELA — Samukelo Tala (26) from Vezubuhle in KwaMhlanga under Thembisile Hani Local Municipality has been crowned second runner-up at the Mr Mpumalanga 2026 pageant held at the Mbombela Civic Centre on Saturday, 23 May 2026.
The event, hosted by the Admire Billy Malubana Foundation (ABM), brought together contestants from across Mpumalanga competing for the provincial title.
Tala's achievement has been welcomed as a proud moment for his community, with supporters describing it as a reflection of discipline, confidence and youth empowerment.
Speaking after the competition, Tala said his participation was about more than winning a title, but also about representing young men from his community and encouraging them to pursue their ambitions.
“This is for every young man in Thembisile Hani who thinks opportunities are far away. We can make our municipality and communities proud right from here,” he said.
He added that the experience taught him confidence, discipline and the importance of staying grounded.
Tala said he plans to continue developing his modelling career while balancing his work as a dental practitioner. He also hopes to use his platform to promote self-belief, education and youth involvement in community projects.
Family and friends described his achievement as inspiring, saying it reflects hard work and dedication.
His friend, Siboniso Malaza, said Tala’s success would motivate other young people from rural communities.
“We started modelling together in high school, hoping to put our hometown on the map. Seeing him become second runner-up is very special. He worked hard and represented us with discipline,” said Malaza.
The Mr Mpumalanga 2026 title was won by Nkosikhona Roro, while Joy Maphanga was named first runner-up.
