Local takes Miss Gauteng title
“Work hard and remain determined, that is when the magic of opportunity will come knocking on your door”
Jamming out to Taylor Swift’s latest album, local beauty Victoria Welthgen is celebrating her latest win, taking the title of Miss Gauteng 2022.
Since winning Miss Benoni in 2016, the Van Rhyn resident and local real estate agent has dreamed of winning this title, hoping that the crown will bring a sense of pride to the city she loves.
Victoria fell in love with modelling at the age of 12 and at 16 could be found on the ramps putting her best foot forward, participating in various pageants.
“I love taking part in pageants, as it is open to everyone thus making it possible for every girl to compete,” she said.
“Modelling as a whole is a large industry with a wide offering of hobbies and careers that few people are aware of.
“It is more than a job or a title, it is something that provides you with a platform to inspire others and to make a difference.”
Since winning Miss Benoni, Victoria has gone on to work for Top Model South Africa, one of the country’s biggest competitions, as head of operations.
“Through the opportunities that pageantry has offered me I have attended more events and travelled more extensively than I could ever have imagined,” said Victoria.
“Not only did this expand my portfolio but also taught me how to use the platform more effectively to garner support for my charity work.”
“I am a big advocate for animals as well as animal welfare charities. I want to give a voice to the voiceless.”
When she is not in front of the cameras, Victoria can be found outdoors playing paddle ball with friends or getting down and dirty by taking part in Warrior races.
Although being strong and active forms part of Victoria’s line of interests, the local beauty is happy to see that the industry has become less focused on physical appearance and more on character.
“Judges are looking for models who have substance and true image,” she said.
“The industry is much more body-positive and it is for this reason that I encourage young models to be their true authentic self.
“Do not fall into the trap of attempting to create a persona based on what you think the world wants to see. Just be.”
Speaking of her future goals, Victoria says she wants to concentrate on expanding her business as well as her modelling career.
“As we all set goals in life, I want aspiring models to chase their dreams.”
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