The picture of poise and perfection

Roche Agenbag is the blueprint of beauty.

There is no doubt her piercing blue eyes were a contributing factor in her winning the Miss Junior SA KwaZulu-Natal title in Pretoria recently. After a much-needed break from the industry, Roche made her return to the runway at the 2012 Miss Vodacom Newcastle Winter Festival, showcasing her effortless allure.

“I decided to start competing again when I was in Grade 9. I entered Miss Newcastle and later, Miss Junior SA because it was a bigger competition.”

With about 29 entries in her category alone, Roche admitted the competition was tough.

“My fellow contestants were amazing models. I was fortunate enough to make friends with two of the girls from Cape Town.”

Owing her success to her mother and grandmother, Roche was grateful for their support over the years.

“They are there for me every step of the way. I haven’t received any formal training; my mom taught me how to walk the runway and from there on, I practiced on my own.”

For the interview section of the Miss Junior SA competition, Roche sought the help of a coach in Volksrust.

“She taught me everything I needed to know for the interview.” The down to earth, girly-girl has an air of whimsy about her. “I don’t wake up with the intention to eat healthy; I eat chocolates. I’m fine with not being your typical model. I’m not the high fashion type.”

Roche never expected to scoop a provincial title and said her only hope was to place in the top three in her category.

“Unfortunately it didn’t happen that way. I just kept telling myself I did my best and in the end, I was a provincial winner.” Exuding self-confidence, Roche said she felt like she deserved the win.

“I worked really hard and was so happy when I won. Walking in high heels for almost an entire week is no joke!”

Roche’s advice to aspiring models is simple, yet profound for a Grade 12 pupil. “You don’t have to try and be someone you’re not. If you don’t make it out on top, don’t give up- just try again. If you work hard enough you will succeed.”

With her friends and family behind her, she has her eyes set on participating in numerous social events during her reign.

“I want to be a part of everything that is happening in Newcastle!” she exclaimed. Roche hopes to obtain a judging qualification soon and offer training to young models. Her ultimate goal is to one day own a modelling school.

“In my personal opinion, if you aren’t nervous on stage, you shouldn’t be modelling. If you have a passion for modelling, you’ll be nervous every time,” she concluded.

With daring aspirations and a dream of making a difference, the world is certainly Roche’s runway!