Little girls around the country dream of one day being crowned Miss South Africa.
It’s an opportunity of a lifetime; the gorgeous tiara, the fabulous prizes, the stunning clothes, instant celebrity status, the exotic destinations, and of course the opportunity to serve as an ambassador of her country.
Prior to being crowned Miss South Africa 2005, Thuli Sithole admits she was just an ordinary woman with dreams.
But her life changed forever when she won the coveted title at Sun City last December, and she is determined to serve as an inspiration to South Africa’s youth.
The ever-ambitious Capricorn has had a whirlwind reign which has seen her discover our beautiful country and visit hot international destinations, Los Angeles, Poland, and Germany.
This beauty with brains is easily recognised wherever she goes, and is always dressed to impress, courtesy of some of the country’s top designers.
As she prepares to hand over her crown to a new Miss SA on December 9, Thuli is adamant that her work as an ambassador of South Africa is only just starting.
She wants to finish her studies and continue her work with various charities.
Then she does find time to relax, she enjoys playing golf and is a big admirer of Retief Goosen.
As she contemplates life after Miss SA, Thuli spoke to gsport about her reign, her style, and her dreams.
Introducing gsport’s Style Star for November; outgoing Miss SA, Thuli Sithole.
How have you enjoyed your reign as Miss South Africa?
It has been phenomenal, challenging, and inspiring. I have met so many different people from different walks of life – who have touched my life in ways that is difficult to explain.
What have been the highlights?
My travels overseas have been a huge eye opener and meeting the President, Thabo Mbeki and former President Nelson Mandela.
What did you do before you were crowned Miss SA?
I was a student in (TRP) BSc and I modelled part time – just an ordinary woman with dreams.
Have you been able to achieve what you set out to do as Miss SA?
Most of it – but I have formed the foundation from which I will be carrying on and luckily I’ve got a lifetime to do this. One year is not enough.
What do you plan to do when your reign ends?
I want to finish my studies and be active in the charities that I am currently involved in.
What fabulous places has your reign taken you to?
I’ve visited Los Angeles, Poland and Berlin in Germany and then all over our beautiful country!
gsport’s theme for November is INSPIRATION. What inspires you?
Strong women, who stand up for what they believe in, especially my mother.
Who are your role models?
Our Deputy Minister, my mother, Oprah and Basetsana (Khumalo).
What is your favourite sport?
I love golf, it helps you get rid of tension, but is still relaxing and it teaches you to focus.
Who is your favourite sports star?
Retief Goosen and Baby Jake Matlala.
How would you define your style?
I prefer a classical look. I love elegant, simple dresses and suites. A huge factor is comfortable shoes.
Where do you shop for clothes?
Morgan, Cameroon and then I have a couple of designers who know exactly what suits me and give excellent advice. I will definitely miss them!!!!
What’s the strangest outfit you’ve ever worn?
A totally see through dress – I was out of my comfort zone completely and I felt, well, very naked.
What is your favourite item of clothing?
I love summer dresses, with bright colours.
Who are your favourite South African designers?
In no specific order, JJ Schoeman, Gerrit Pienaar, Mark & Michael, Gideon and Norman Cullen.
Who is your style icon?
Patrice Motsepe and his glamorous wife, Dr Precious Moloi – they do know how to start a trend and then the presenters of Top Billing always look stunning.
What are your music tastes?
Classical, Jazz, Soul and anything else that helps me relax.
What is your favourite food?
I crave marogo & stew whenever I am away from home. A big favourite is the homemade meals from SPAR! Delicious and it saves you time.
Star Sign?
Capricorn and proud of it!
Favourite actors?
Samuel L Jackson, Bruce Willis, Cuba Gooding Jnr, Will Smith and Richard Gere.
And I had the opportunity to meet Samuel L Jackson a while ago at Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s Birthday Party!
Favourite colour?
Purple.
Advice to women who would like to follow in your footsteps?
God has set a path for you, listen to the directions carefully and walk it.
Still to achieve?
Besides everything, my degree and I would love to have a family of my own and teach my children the values and standards that my parents taught me.
Go to our October Style Star – Nicole Fox
Go to our September Style Star – Noni Gasa
Go to our August Style Star –Pabi Moloi
Go to November’s Leading Ladies
Go to November’s Feature Articles
Go to the gsport Newsroom