The search for the next face of Top Billing has narrowed to five finalists, marking a major milestone in the 2026 Presenter Search.
After attracting thousands of hopefuls from across South Africa, the competition has identified five contenders with the talent, confidence and on-screen presence to potentially join one of the country’s most celebrated lifestyle television brands.
The journey has seen aspiring presenters put their skills to the test through an intensive selection process assessing their versatility, communication, storytelling and ability to connect with audiences. Now, five finalists remain, each bringing a distinct personality, perspective and story to the competition as they vie for a potentially life-changing opportunity.
MEET THE TOP 5
HOMBA MAZALENI
The sport scientist with a passion for storytelling
Originally from Dutywa in the Eastern Cape, Homba Mazaleni is a presenter, content creator and qualified biokineticist whose passion for sport, wellness and people has helped her build an impressive digital following. With three degrees behind her and a place in the Miss South Africa 2023 Top 5, Homba has proven that determination, authenticity and hard work can open extraordinary doors. Her journey from rural beginnings to the world of sports media is a testament to her resilience and ambition. Combining scientific knowledge with infectious energy, natural confidence and a love for adventure, Homba brings a fresh perspective to lifestyle storytelling.
TALITHA BOTHMA
A remarkable story of resilience, purpose and possibility
Talitha Bothma is a growth strategist, entrepreneur, speaker and founder of Worth in Motion, an organisation dedicated to empowering individuals to recognise their value and unlock opportunities. Her journey has been anything but conventional. Growing up in rural South Africa, overcoming profound personal loss and rebuilding her life following a serious medical condition that affected her hearing and vision, Talitha has transformed adversity into a powerful sense of purpose. With experience spanning technology, fashion, media and business development across Africa, she brings a unique combination of sophistication, empathy and intellectual curiosity. For Talitha, Top Billing represents far more than beautiful destinations and extraordinary lifestyles. It is about the people, dreams and stories behind them.
KAREN MTHETHWA
From Soweto dreams to the national spotlight
Karen Mthethwa is a dynamic broadcaster, radio personality and live-event presenter whose journey embodies the power of believing in yourself. Raised in Soweto, Karen rose through the broadcasting ranks after winning YFM’s presenter search in 2024. From hosting late-night radio to securing her own weekday show, The Glow Up, her career has been driven by persistence, passion and a natural ability to connect with audiences. A mother of two, Karen is passionate about representation and showing young women that their backgrounds do not define their futures. With her vibrant personality, exceptional communication skills and passion for entertainment, fashion and culture, Karen is ready to bring her distinctive energy to the Top Billing stage.
NEHEMIAH TJATJI
A born entertainer with a storyteller’s heart
Nehemiah Tjatji is an experienced television presenter, creative producer, director and entrepreneur whose career has taken him both in front of and behind the camera. Having lost his mother at a young age, Nehemiah found comfort and purpose in the performing arts. His passion for storytelling took him from community radio to television, acting, directing and producing. His experience includes presenting the SABC1 reality competition series Verified, alongside extensive work in entertainment and television production. With a charismatic personality, an infectious love for people and a deep understanding of the entertainment industry, Nehemiah brings experience, versatility and an authentic passion for sharing remarkable stories.
ROSS MARSHALL
From the football field to the world of entertainment
Ross Marshall is a presenter, actor, model, creative director and youth mentor whose journey has been shaped by reinvention, determination and a passion for connecting with people. A former semi-professional footballer, Ross pursued a career in sport before discovering a new calling in the performing arts and storytelling. Following the loss of his father in 2023, Ross has remained committed to honouring his family’s belief in him by pursuing his dreams and inspiring others to do the same. Through his work as a presenter, corporate MC, podcast host and founder of FortifiedZa, Ross has built a career focused on leadership, entrepreneurship and empowering the next generation. His natural warmth, creative energy and passion for human connection bring a fresh dimension to the Top Billing Presenter Search.
THE JOURNEY CONTINUES
For decades, Top Billing has celebrated the very best of the good life, taking South Africans inside extraordinary homes, introducing them to inspiring personalities and exploring the world’s most remarkable destinations and experiences.
With the show’s return to television in 2026, the Presenter Search represents an exciting opportunity to discover a new generation of talent who will help shape the future of this beloved South African brand. The five finalists bring different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives, but share one important quality: a passion for people and the stories that make life extraordinary.
As the competition enters its next chapter, the finalists will face new opportunities to demonstrate their presenting talent, personality and ability to connect with audiences. Who has what it takes to become the next Top Billing presenter? South Africa will have to keep watching to find out!
Catch Top Billing every Thursday at 7pm on S3, with repeats on Sundays at 1pm on S3 and Tuesdays at 9:30pm on SABC1. Episodes are also available to stream and catch up on SABC+.
