Local model turns rolemodel with new position

She was only three years old when Wilhrisca Jardine’s mother put her on the modelling ramp for the first time, and ever since, the catwalk has been part of her life. Now, at the age of 27, she is the director of ACE Models Limpopo Central.

“The former owner, Jacqueline Ferns, had to sell the franchise and when she approached me I decided to take the opportunity. Two years ago I decided to withdraw from the modelling industry, but I remained informed about all that was happening in the modelling world. I was looking for something to do while I completed my studies and this looked like the perfect opportunity.”

Wilhrisca says she attended the year-end function last year, and met all the models. She also receives training to learn ACE Models’ approach and methods. She has four branches to manage – Polokwane as the main branch, Tzaneen, Mokopane and Louis Trichardt. Jacqueline is still the director of ACE Models Limpopo while Wilhrisca is director at ACE Models Limpopo Central.

“Those in Limpopo who do not live in one of the four cities, and would like to join, have to contact Jacqueline. We currently have more than 40 models, but I aim to have about 200 by the end of April. Once a year there is a big ACE Models conference in Johannesburg where all the ACE models have to be. Jacqueline won new Franchise of the Year and Director of the Year in 2019 and I would like to bring back these awards again.”

Ace Models focuses on more than just beauty, but teaches self-confidence and etiquette. They also teach models to walk on the ramp, commercial modelling, photogenic modelling and pageantry. Anyone from the ages of three years old can join. There will be some workshops hosted throughout the year to teach models all aspects of the beauty industry.

“If you would like to grow, develop self-confidence and start to believe in yourself, you should join. There is a 50-week curriculum where you learn international standards of modelling.”