After an inspiring response to the Campus Best Dressed 2026 competition, our student judging panel has selected three winners whose looks captured the spirit of this year’s theme: Follow Your heART.

First place was awarded to Naledi, who impressed the judges with a thoughtfully presented mood board outlining the elements of her outfit - a striking combination of street fashion and business attire. Her motivation resonated strongly with the panel. As Naledi explains, “Follow Your HeART is about choosing passion without sacrificing professionalism.” Her interpretation reflects the importance of remaining authentic while pursuing one’s dreams - a message closely aligned with the spirit of the Cape Town Carnival.

Second place went to Kiana, whose outfit stood out for its originality and attention to detail. Her interpretation of the theme focused on quiet courage: “Following your heart is not always loud; sometimes it’s gentle and fearless in its own quiet way.” The judges appreciated both the thoughtfulness of her message and the creativity of her look.

Third place was awarded to Abigail, whose entry combined a powerful photograph with a deeply meaningful motivation. Abigail wore a traditional Lozi Musisi outfit representing her Namibian heritage. As she explains, “By wearing it, I am wearing a history of over 200 years of connection to nature and its cycles.” Her entry highlights how following one’s heart can also mean staying deeply connected to one’s cultural roots.

The judging panel loved being part of this process and seeing the creativity with which students interpreted the theme.

We look forward to welcoming the winners to the Cape Town Carnival on Human Rights Day, Saturday 21 March, on the Green Point Fan Walk.

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