Top Billing has announced the five finalists in its 2026 Presenter Search, narrowing thousands of hopefuls from across South Africa to a shortlist competing for a place on the returning lifestyle television show.
The finalists are Homba Mazaleni, Talitha Bothma, Karen Mthethwa, Nehemiah Tjatji and Ross Marshall. They were selected following a process that assessed their presenting abilities, confidence, versatility and on-screen presence.
The competition aims to identify a new generation of presenters for one of South Africa’s best-known lifestyle television brands, which returned to television in 2026.
The five finalists bring different professional backgrounds and experiences, spanning broadcasting, sport, entrepreneurship, television production and the performing arts.
Mazaleni, originally from Dutywa in the Eastern Cape, is a qualified biokineticist, sport scientist, presenter and content creator. She holds three degrees and was among the top five finalists in Miss South Africa 2023. Her background combines sport and wellness expertise with digital content creation and storytelling.
Bothma is a growth strategist, entrepreneur, speaker and founder of Worth in Motion, an organisation focused on helping people recognise their value and access opportunities. Her career has included work in technology, fashion, media and business development across Africa. She has also spoken about overcoming significant personal challenges, including a medical condition that affected her hearing and vision.
Mthethwa is a broadcaster and live-event presenter who rose through the industry after winning YFM’s presenter search in 2024. She subsequently secured her own weekday radio show, The Glow Up. Raised in Soweto, she has highlighted representation and opportunities for young women as central to her work.
Tjatji is a television presenter, creative producer, director and entrepreneur. His experience includes presenting the SABC1 reality competition series Verified, alongside work in acting and television production. He began his career in community radio before expanding into other areas of the entertainment industry.
Marshall, a former semi-professional footballer, has moved into presenting, acting, modelling and creative direction. He also works as a corporate master of ceremonies and podcast host, and founded FortifiedZa, an initiative focused on leadership, entrepreneurship and youth empowerment.
The five will continue through the next stage of the competition, where they will have further opportunities to demonstrate their presenting skills and ability to connect with audiences.
Top Billing has spent decades profiling notable South Africans, showcasing homes and destinations, and exploring lifestyle and entertainment. The presenter search forms part of the programme’s return to television and its effort to introduce new talent to audiences.
Top Billing airs on Thursdays at 7pm on S3, with repeats on Sundays at 1pm on S3 and Tuesdays at 9.30pm on SABC1. Episodes are also available on SABC+.
