The 19-year-old KwaZulu-Natal pageant star claimed the international title after an already successful year on the pageant circuit.
Harburg, South Africa (02 September 2026) – A 19-year-old from Harburg is bringing an international crown back to KwaZulu-Natal after Nikhita van der Linden was named Queen of the Universe 2026 on Saturday, 29 August.
Nikhita says she hopes to show other young people that big dreams do not need a big-city address.
Her latest win adds to what has already been a busy 2026 for the young model and pageant competitor.
Earlier this year, she was crowned Miss Jnr South Africa, Miss Jnr South Africa KwaZulu-Natal, Miss Jnr South Africa Universe and Miss Umhlanga.
She has also picked up a rather impressive collection of awards, including Senior Charity Champion, Senior Face of South Africa, Best of the Best for achieving the highest score in the entire pageant, Best in Interview, Best Ramp Model, Best Dressed for Interview Wear, the Public Choice Award and the Beauty with a Purpose Award.
So yes, there are quite a few crowns and titles to keep track of. But behind all of them is a journey that started much closer to home.
Nikhita grew up in Harburg and attended New Hanover Preparatory School from Grade RRR through to Grade 7.
Those early school years helped shape the young woman who would eventually find herself competing internationally, and she now hopes to return to the schools and communities that supported her along the way.
Her family would love the opportunity for Nikhita to visit local schools, including New Hanover Prep, where she could meet current pupils and share her story.
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Winning Queen of the Universe has been the biggest moment of Nikhita’s pageant career so far. And while the international title is certainly worth celebrating, Nikhita says being able to represent Harburg makes it even more special.
The experience has helped her build confidence, discipline and resilience, while also giving her an opportunity to use her platform to encourage others and give back.
“Believe in yourself, stay true to who you are, work hard and never let where you come from limit where you believe you can go.”
From Harburg to the international pageant stage, Nikhita now has a global title to her name.
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