Nomalanga Shozi looks to 2026: exciting expansion plans in entertainment and retail

Lutho Pasiya|Published

Nomalanga Shozi is preparing for a pivotal year in 2026, aiming to expand her presence across entertainment and retail.

Image: Facebook/Nomalanga Shozi

Actress and TV personality Nomalanga Shozi is looking ahead to 2026 with plans to expand her work across entertainment and retail. 

Speaking to “Independent Media Lifestyle”, Shozi said, “I have a big announcement regarding my career that I’ll be making on the 'Last Dance' stage. That’s what I’m really excited about.”

She added, “Some of the goals that I plan to achieve include growing and creating things for myself that I’m truly passionate about in the entertainment and retail space.

"I have already done things that I grew up always wanting to do, and now I want to capitalise on and monetise the platforms I have. In 2026, I also want to get back into radio.”

Tonight, December 31, Shozi will host SABC 1’s live broadcast of the "Last Dance Music Festival" alongside Robot Boii, giving audiences across the country a front-row seat to one of KwaZulu-Natal’s largest New Year’s Eve celebrations.

2025 has been a busy year for Shozi. 

She hosted the Miss South Africa 2025 Grand Finale in October, calling the role a “full circle” moment. Her hosting received attention for her energy and her fashion, which showcased South African design through several avant-garde outfits styled by Phupho Gumede.

One standout look was a heavy grey gown that she wore for the opening segment.

In September, Shozi attended the London Fashion Week with Nkuley Masemola and Ponahalo Masemola, appearing at the H&M show.

Earlier in the year, in May, she hosted the AFI black carpet at the Metro FM Music Awards, describing the experience as “an exciting time to be young and gifted.” 

Shozi also continued her work with major brands, appearing in an advertising campaign for L’Oréal Paris, highlighting some of her favourite products. In acting, she portrayed Amandla Zungu on BET Africa’s show “Black Gold”. 

Amid the highlights, Shozi also faced personal loss. She mourned the death of a close friend and colleague, DJ Warras, who was shot in Johannesburg’s CBD this month.

Shozi and Warras co-presented the afternoon drive-time show “That Drive” with Clarissa Mfeka on Gagasi FM from 2019 until she departed from the station.

In her speech, she described Warras as her mentor, saying he “always protected, loved and respected women.”