The achievements, dedication and personal growth of young models took centre stage when JannyDjan hosted its sixth annual Awards Event at Snowflake Venue on Saturday, June 27.

The glamorous evening welcomed 55 models together with 180 guests and VIPs, who gathered to celebrate another successful year for the modelling academy. The annual event recognises outstanding performances, academic achievements, industry success and personal development across all levels of the programme.

This year’s theme, “Be the Colour”, was inspired by the aurora borealis and aurora australis, the spectacular natural light displays that illuminate the night skies in the northern and southern hemispheres.

According to JannyDjan CEO and founder Janet Potgieter, the theme carried a deeper message than simply vibrant colours.

“Our ‘Be the Colour’ theme symbolises our natural human ability to be caring, dynamic, dependable, peaceful, positive and joyful. No matter what challenges we face, we always rise above them. We strive to be not only the light, but the colour wherever we go,” said Potgieter.

During the awards ceremony, new rookie models were officially welcomed into the academy, while successful candidates received their examination results and top achiever awards. Models who completed the full modelling programme were recognised as Elite Models, while others were honoured for their participation in fashion shows, professional photo shoots, make-up workshops, hair shows and open days.

The evening also celebrated models who secured contracts with Johannesburg-based agencies, appeared in commercials, participated in fashion events and achieved success in pageants and modelling competitions.

The academy’s highest honour, the Grand Champion Award, was presented to Elizna Pretorius in recognition of her outstanding achievements, commitment, attitude, involvement, personal growth and potential within the modelling industry.

The Elite Models of the Year were announced as Philile Ziyane (Senior Female), Lesley Seokwang (Male) and Olwethu Khumbula (Junior Female).

Module top achievers were also recognised. Golethabo Ntsoelengoe, Louise Kruger and Doyeong Baek received Module 1 Top Model awards. Module 2 honours went to Bohang Molekane, Louise Kruger, Ebert Jonker and Amelia Joshua, while Elizna Pretorius, who achieved an impressive 100%, Zia Muller and Lesley Seokwang were named Module 3 Top Models.

The evening concluded with recognition of the academy’s coaching team, comprising director and coach Marinet Potgieter, male model coach Stephan Venter, and CEO and founder Janet Potgieter, whose guidance continues to help develop the next generation of South African modelling talent.