Three heart surgeries could not stop Hannah Banien from becoming a Miss Grand South Africa 2026 finalist.
The Somerset West teenager was born with a severe congenital heart defect, a life-threatening condition requiring immediate intervention.
“I was born without an aortic valve; at only a month old open-heart surgery was performed on me,” the 18-year-old explained. “The aortic valve controls blood flow from the heart to the body; without it, blood will not circulate properly.”
Two more surgeries followed – at age four when the valve leaked and in Grade 9 for monitoring and maintenance.
“Growing up, the surgeries were challenging, but it didn’t affect me negatively. The surgeries shaped me into the young woman I am today.”
It was during Grade 10 at Gordon High School that Banien discovered her heartbeat for pageantry. She won Ms Personality in the school’s Mr and Ms Spring competition in 2022, followed by her crowning moment, as Miss Gordon 2023.
“I wasn’t expecting to win. When I heard my name, I couldn’t believe it – all I could do was smile.”
That victory launched her modeling career, becoming a Miss Teen World South Africa 2024 finalist before taking a break during matric to focus on studies.
Now, with final examinations complete, Banien has set her sights on Miss Grand South Africa 2026.
The pageant forms part of the Miss Grand International competition, emphasising individuality, authenticity and international readiness.
This year’s theme, Rise of the Phoenix, symbolises resilience, growth and transformation.
“Banien stood out for her confidence, composure and ability to communicate authentically,” explained Lenie Louw, the pageant’s national director.
“She demonstrated strong self-awareness, clear purpose and the determination needed to thrive.”
For the local teen, the pageant represents far more than competition.
“Miss Grand SA is more than just a crown; it represents pride and responsibility to inspire. I don’t just want the crown; I want the responsibility that comes with it.”
Drawing from her medical experiences, Banien has established Hope’s Heart Foundation to help children with heart defects and those struggling to find their place.
“I wanted to create a place for children who feel unsure about where they belong, to uplift and encourage them and show them they do belong.”
She pursues this mission while studying law at the University of South Africa (Unisa) and continuing her modelling career.
“I’ve been training hard – walking in heels, hitting the gym – and preparation is going smoothly.”
Through everything Banien remains authentic. “I want to be known as Hannah Banien, a young girl who started small and never had anything easy, but by putting God first I was able to overcome and achieve.”
Banien proves that being a queen requires more than beauty; it needs a heart of gold, even if that heart has to work a little harder than that of others to give of itself.
To show support, contact Banien via email at hannahbanien@gmail.com.
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