Liesl Laurie, a 24-year-old Miss South Africa finalist says she knew from a young age that modelling was a career she would pursue.
Guided by her dream, Laurie refused to be caught up in social ills and engagements that would destroy her reputation.
She recalls watching Miss SA when Claudia Henkel was crowned, “On that day, I told myself that is where I will be in the future,” Laurie said.
She attended primary school at E W Hobbs, matriculated from Silver Oaks High School and graduated from the University of Johannesburg with a general BCom.
Laurie started modelling seriously in 2010 when she entered Miss Soweto.
“People would always tell me that I should do modelling because of my length,” Laurie said.
She started living her life for her future.
“I lived my life the way I did because I knew I’d end up where I am today, I didn’t want any skeletons coming out,” she said.
Laurie continues keeping her private life out of the public eye, giving them less to talk about.
“I never give the public something to question about me, I don’t post anything regarding my private life on social media,” said Laurie.
She advises girls to do the same and be careful of what they put on social media.
Raised by her grandmother, Laurie says she manages to stay humble because of the values learnt by her grandmother.
“She my granny has good values and always prayed that we would continue living life the way she taught us,” Laurie said.
Speaking about her journey to being a finalist, Laurie says it was an exciting, scary and bittersweet experience.
“I was the last contestant to know my fate so I had to wait for two hours.
“I didn’t cry when the judges told me I am a finalist but I was sad when I saw that someone I became good friends with didn’t make it,” she said.
Laurie appreciates the love and support from the community of Eldorado Park, her hometown.
She thanks God for the experience, her family, friends and sponsors for their support.
Miss SA will take place at Sun City in March where Laurie will compete for the prestigious title.
