Former Kingsway High pupil named Miss Earth SA regional finalist

FORMER KINGSWAY High pupil, Caroline Hartog (22) is one of 24 Miss Earth South Africa 2017 regional finalists.

The model is going ‘green’ by getting involved in both social and environmental projects, while learning about her country.

“We had our finalist week at Monte Casino where Tsogo Sun sponsored our accommodation at the Palazzo Hotel,” she said. “My green journey started in April after I went through a casting round and was selected in the top 60 as a regional semi-finalist.

After completing a month of social and environmental projects, I was chosen in the top 24 as a regional finalist where I had to complete more educational projects.”

Caroline now looks forward to the top 12 national finalist selection in August, before the gala event to be held in September in Johannesburg.

The model’s finalist week consisted of the top 24 Earth contenders getting to know each other on a more personal level. They were treated to the best restaurants, fun activities and attended a conference with the Miss Earth SA Team and guest speakers from Tsogo Sun, Edith Venter and Miss Earth South Africa’s director, Catherine Constanides.

“We visited Nku-Thuto Primary School located in Soweto, where we spent the morning making recycled jewellery and had an educational class about the research and development of gem stones with the pupils,” she said.

Caroline began her modeling career at the age of 14 and has always enjoyed it. She started with courses and then got into pageants for a few years, but that eventually faded away.

“I was then approached by a few brands for photographic modeling such as the Hub, Lizzy, Brazilia Designer Shoe Outlet and professional photographers for campaigns,” she said.

Caroline explained that Miss Earth South Africa is more of a leadership programme than a modeling competition.

“This is where I have the platform to make a difference in my community and spread environmental awareness to young people out there by educating them about our animals, the environment and social development,” said Caroline.

“I intend on getting the Amanzimtoti community involved by doing a beach clean up. These dates will be confirmed and hopefully I will get involved with the local SPCA.”

The model says her biggest motivation has been her friends and family. Their support over the last three months has left Caroline beyond grateful.

She grew up in Xinavane, a small village in Mozambique for three years, Simunye in Swaziland for three years, Park Rynie on the South Coast for 10 years and currently lives in Umhlanga. She matriculated in 2013 from Kingsway High School and graduated with a degree in marketing management from Varsity College in May. Currently an au pair, Caroline also juggles her work as a junior events co-ordinator.

“Love your life, live your spirit,” is a quote she lives by. “Don’t ever give up on your passions and more importantly, never give up on yourself. We are human, we have the ability to do anything we set our minds to.”

DID YOU KNOW?
Click on the words highlighted in red to read more on this and related topics. 
To receive news links via WhatsApp, send an invite to 061 694 6047
The South Coast Sun is also on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest – why not join us there?

Do you have more information pertaining to this story?
Feel free to let us know by commenting on our Facebook page or you can contact our newsroom on 031 903 2341 and speak to a journalist.

(Comments posted on this issue may be used for publication in the Sun)