Alia Khan Koumantarakis
WHAT started as an item on a high-school bucket list has turned into a reality for Alia Khan Koumantarakis, who was recently selected as a Miss South Africa 2026 Top 19 finalist.
The 21-year-old from Durban did some modelling in high school, but pageantry was never something she actively pursued while growing up, and she felt overwhelmed with gratitude for reaching the finals.
She said entering Miss South Africa was on her bucket list of experiences and goals that she wanted to achieve one day.
“When I made the Top 19, it was one of those moments when you have to pause and let it sink in. I felt proud of how far I had come and deeply thankful to everyone who had supported me throughout the journey. Making the Top 19 has been a dream come true,” said Koumantarakis.
