Zululand model sets sights on Italy

Aspiring Bay supermodel L’Tanya van Rooyen (16) has been presented with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to tread international waters in the fashion capital – Milan, Italy.

Selected by Elite Model Look, formerly known as ‘The Look of the Year’, the competition has featured industry icons such as Cindy Crawford, Gisele Bundchen, Melania Trump and 2014 Miss South Africa winner Rolene Strauss.

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Held by Elite Model Management, the prestigious pageant is taking place in March next year and will provide a platform for contestants between the ages of 14 and 26 to be signed to a world-renowned modelling agency.

Looking to make her mark, L’Tanya is excited at the prospect of securing an international deal.
“I am very grateful and excited to have this opportunity to represent my country,” she said.

While she has only been modelling since December last year, L’Tanya’s undeniable talent and hard work have won her several titles including Miss SAVF, Miss Zululand, Miss Little Junior Centre and Miss Dolosfees.

While she has big plans for her future, this is just the beginning for L’Tanya, who needs the help of her fellow Zululanders to get to Italy. The trip will cost more than R70 000.

“If I get a contract with an overseas designer, I would give back to my community and create a foundation for people to donate clothing products and food for the homeless,” said L’Tanya.

“I would make my mother’s dream of owning an orphanage come true.”

Those willing and able to help L’Tanya achieve her dream of modelling overseas can contact her mother D’Elize van Rooyen on 079 4976917.

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