Simple things in life matter- Miss SA 2019

When we think about the reigning year of Miss SA, we imagine her being out and about in fulfilling her duties and keeping up with a busy schedule. However, lockdown has changed the way of live for all of us, including that of Miss SA 2019 Alberton’s Sasha-Lee Olivier.

The RECORD caught up with her and chatted about how the lockdown has changed her expectations and the challenges she is facing as Miss SA.

“I’d describe the position I hold as ‘dutiful’, it does require a lot of work on the ground. It consists of meetings with leaders of industries and interactions with the public that help mould the campaigns we implement.

“Given the current pandemic, the call for solidarity and to stay at home to assist in flattening the curve, I’ve learnt to be grateful for what I have and make do with what I have.”

Events and drives

“Just like all South Africans have had to do, I have learnt to adapt. I continue to lend my voice to a multitude of causes but through my global community on social media.”

When she was crowned Miss SA, Sasha-Lee announced that she will use the platform to drive her campaign #ITISNOTYOURFAULT. We wanted to know how lockdown affected this.

“After my crowning in mid-January and together with the Miss South Africa Organisation, we put together an action plan with regards to how we would carry out the duration of my reign. “We started by visiting schools; King David was first on the agenda. I spoke about consent, what I had survived, the impacts of sexual abuse in the long run and the importance of speaking out.

“Our objective was to ensure that those who were most vulnerable were in a better position to speak about topics they hadn’t had confidence to speak about and in a safe environment. “Following our visit, the campaign received a generous donation from the school, which was used for our rape comfort packs that are distributed by The Angel Network. Although we may not be able to directly interact with those in need given the current regulation, we are still doing our best digitally to carry this forward.”

Attending functions, events and drives are limited, even for Sasha-Lee; however, she shared her latest highlight.
“Covid-19 regulations enforced have limited travel. However, due to the easing of restrictions I have recently been able to attend an event for International Nurses Day.

“Along with the Deputy Health Minister, Dr Joe Phaahla, and Gauteng Health MEC, Dr Bandile Masuku, I had the privilege of addressing and honour those nurses who selflessly form part of the frontline. “I felt privileged to have been able to thank them on behalf of South Africa for their bravery and sacrifice and their continued commitment to the well-being of all South Africans.”

Living in lockdown – lessons learned

“I think we all went into this with a positive mindset, to make the best of it. I personally viewed this as days to work towards a better South Africa.  “A South Africa where compassion and kindness are key, where people matter more than money, where the strong care for the vulnerable, where equality means equitable sharing – a South Africa where people value what is truly important.

“There have been days that were testing but for the most part, I’ve realised how privileged I am. Seeing other people face the pandemic with income insecurity and not having enough has worried me. This experience has taught me to be grateful for what I have.”

On a personal note

We asked Sasha-Lee about passing time during lockdown, her inspiration drawn from lockdown and, of course, the first thing she would do after lockdown.

“Lockdown has re-ignited my love for cooking and baking. I don’t think anyone would be able to take the piping bag out of my hand after this!

“As far as inspiration goes, you don’t need to be in government to govern. Radio and TV personality Anele Mdoda said these words while I was in attendance at the annual back-to-school party hosted by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

“During this pandemic, I find that the people of South Africa have definitely echoed this notion by practicing the spirit of Ubuntu. Each and everyone doing their part for humanity. “Whether it’s staying at home and adhering to the regulations so as to flatten the curve or by handing out food parcels or by going back to work as essential workers. They’ve shown us that one doesn’t need a title to lead.”

When it comes to the first thing she will do after lockdown, she said: “Right now, a road trip seems like a plan. I would love the opportunity to spend some much-needed time surrounded by nature. It’s the simple things such as going to the parks with my family that I miss the most.

“I also think I speak for everyone when I say that this pandemic has brought us to the realisation that every moment or interaction, whether we enjoyed it or not, could’ve been our last.
“In the spirit of that, I hope that I become more present and enjoy every experience or encounter with anyone and everyone I meet.

“I’ve come to learn that you only ever see the lesson looking back. When we get out of this, we will understand why it was necessary and why the world, as we knew it, is no longer.”