Mrs South Africa hopeful on self-love
MELVILLE - Beauty and brain Lorna Greyling has her heart set on being crowned Mrs South Africa 2014.
Who said beauty pageants are all about long legs, perfectly curled eyelashes and wide smiles?
Mrs South Africa semi-finalist Lorna Greyling may be aesthetically pleasing, but her innate passion for life has elevated her beyond a mere pretty face.
Not to be confused with Miss South Africa, Mrs South Africa is specifically designed for married women between the ages of 25 and 50.
The Melville Wellness Centre and Day Spa owner describes the competition as more than just a pageant, but a platform for women with a cause.
“It’s really for women who want to make a difference with their lives, who believe in something and want to impact the world and the area around them through what they believe in,” Greyling said.
The 36-year-old has her passion set on emotional healing, a field that she can completely identify with.
“What I believe in is to… get to a place of finding your true identity, mainly in Christ but also within yourself as well. It’s really important that even if you do have faith, that you also accept yourself for who you are.”
“I was actually severely depressed. I really battled with accepting myself and thought I was the ugliest person alive.”
She is able to laugh at the memory of when she found herself in debt as a result of seeking temporary joy in retail therapy.
“There is no lasting joy in that. You feel good for a moment and then you get the bill.”
The mother of three is also an author and gives motivational talks.
She wrote Ontvoer (kidnapped) after her husband Nick was held hostage in Nigeria in 2010.
With all this to overcome, Greyling found solace in prayer and remained in touch with her spirituality.
She is now able to inspire women who have gone through similar challenges.
“I would encourage women who are going through what I went through to call out to God and find the strength inside spiritually. They should understand and know that there is such power in self-love.”
The top 22 finalists will be announced on 12 April at Emperor’s Palace, during a gala dinner to be held in support of Cansa. To vote for Greyling, SMS “Lorna Greyling” to 35959 as many times as you wish before 6pm on 11 April. SMSes cost R3 each.
Details: www.lornagreyling.com, www.mrssouthafrica.co.za
