Verushka Singh has made history as the first Indian South African woman to be crowned Mrs South Africa, claiming the 2026 title in a moment she describes as “magical.”
The 36-year-old chemical engineer and climate activist said the announcement brought an almost surreal calm as the noise and lights of the ceremony faded around her.
“It’s a moment I’d imagined in my mind a million times,” Singh said. “When it finally happened, it felt like everything had come together exactly the way it needed to.”
Singh’s victory carries particular significance for South Africa’s Indian community, who have embraced her achievement as a symbol of belonging and representation.
“My heritage is Indian, but I’ve always felt deeply South African,” she explained. “The most beautiful part has been seeing the joy in the Indian community. It shows that no matter what community you come from, you belong. You have a place in South Africa’s story.”
Climate champion
Singh brings a unique professional background to the role. After completing her Chemical Engineering degree at the University of the Witwatersrand, she spent 14 years in management consulting, specialising in climate change and sustainability for JSE-listed companies, governments, and international climate bodies.
Her environmental activism was sparked by an Al Gore documentary at a time when climate change remained a subject of debate.
“Seeing the destruction and understanding that the consequences for people in Africa are even worse than for those living in wealthier regions, something inside me knew I had to be involved,” Singh said.
She recently founded Climate Axis, a sustainability platform combining advisory services, education, advocacy, and community programmes.
“Climate action is about dignity, opportunity, safety, and the future we want for our children,” Singh said. “Without a planet, there is no human life.”
Personal transformation
Singh, who grew up in Johannesburg before completing her schooling at Westville Girls’ High School in Durban, admits the pageant journey was initially daunting.
“A year ago, I didn’t think I was good enough. All I could see were flaws,” she revealed.
She credits the Mrs South Africa programme with reigniting her passion for life and teaching her vulnerability – qualities that transformed her relationships both personally and professionally.
As a wife, mother, entrepreneur, and now national titleholder, Singh hopes to show women they don’t need to choose between different aspects of themselves.
“You’re allowed to be more than one thing. You can lead in a male-dominated field and still step onto a stage in a gown and a crown,” she said.
Singh plans to use her platform to advance climate awareness and work with corporations and communities on measurable sustainability projects. She believes change begins at home, particularly through mothers teaching children about energy conservation and waste reduction.
“I want to be remembered as a woman who led with purpose, courage and heart,” Singh said. “Someone who used her voice to open doors for others and made climate awareness feel human and accessible.”
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