Miss Earth walks the talk
FOURWAYS - Days away from Miss Earth 2014, which is set to take place on 29 November, Miss Earth South Africa Ilzé Saunders is set to jet off to South East Asia to represent the country at the international Miss Earth pageant.
This 23-year-old hails from the North West province and is ready to share her passion, views and environmentalism with the world. She is the model ambassador to fly the flag at the international Miss Earth competition as she is the true embodiment of what a Miss Earth should be.
Saunders said, “Our country is rich in its natural heritage.” She arrives in Manila, Philippines this month and will spend three weeks in South East Asia, travelling throughout the Philippines visiting schools and communities, promoting environmental campaigns and meeting with dignitaries and environmental bodies across the region.
Miss Earth South Africa strives to create a platform to empower young women to take on environmental and sustainability issues, building young women into ambassadors. Miss Earth South Africa executive director, Catherine Constantinides said, “We have no doubt that Ilze will do us proud. She has a wonderful excitement and personality, and she is ready to embrace the experience.”
During her year reign, her objective is to reduce her carbon impact. Walking the talk, she travels in a hybrid vehicle. She will be putting together a tree planting event prior to her departure, to counteract her travel footprint as she embarks on this journey.
She will showcase a one-of-a-kind national costume in Manila, custom designed by Sonwabile Ndamase from Vukani Range Creations. Ndamase is best known for creating the brightly coloured, patterned Madiba Shirts. Delegates at the international Miss Earth are also required to present an eco-dress sourced from sustainable or recycled materials. She will also be showcasing a design created by Louis Designs and Flintsky Design. According to Saunders the garment is representative of our bio-diversity.
“I have a burning desire to help people and to make a difference, by taking action and helping to change communities towards a better future for everyone. By giving hope and inspiring change in others, my life has been enriched. It is an experience that I will cherish for the rest of my life,” said Saunders.
