GIYANI – THERE is no way to explain what a model must look like, any unique look can be the look people want.
This was according to Amukelani Bello, a gr. 10 learner from Giyani High School who was crowned first princess of the Miss High Schools beauty pageant at Giyani Community Hall recently.
“I realised that one does not need two heads or a pretty face to become a model as most people believe… all you need is self confidence,” she said.
The 17 year-old teenager draws her inspiration from international supermodel Alek Wek, a woman whose dark-skinned complexion did not prevent her from being an internationally recognised supermodel. “When I saw Alek I immediately saw a reflection of myself and realised what it takes to become a model,” explained Amukelani, saying she admired the self confidence in Alek.
“I have learnt from her that self confidence can take one further than looks and brains can. I believe that if Alex could do it, so can I,” she said.
Amukelani says modelling is all she dreams about and she is looking for agencies that will help her reach her dream.
“I have always been dreaming of finding a modelling agency that will help me to champion the ideals of what beautiful is, just as Alek is doing,” she said.
Asked if she had competed in any other beauty pageants before winning her recent title, she said she had, but had not been placed anywhere.
“I have entered several competitions at our school. Winning the title of first princess in this competition was a breakthrough in my modelling career,” she said. She urged other youngsters to stick to what they believed in and never give up.
“Life holds no promises… if you try to grab everything you might lose all. It is better to stick to what you believe in and nurture your dream to success,” she concluded.
