At the tender age of 12 Elissa Conradie has a burning desire to be a successful international model.
This dream could soon be a reality, for she has been shortlisted by International Modelling & Talent Association (IMTA) as a sought-after talent for the international stage.
The Ashton Primary learner is a proud product of the Boland, and it is with the people here that she finds purpose for her life.
“This came as a huge surprise to me and my family,” she said. “It was so unexpected when they let us know earlier this month. We were all getting ready to go to bed when the message came that I had been selected as a finalist for the association.”
Elissa has great drive and determination when it comes to the well-being of her community. She recognises the desperate need for upliftment and wants to be the proponent for others to also find their feet on the international stage.
“Since I was in diapers I have had a passion for being in front of the camera,” she said. “I enjoyed taking pictures, and playing with my mother’s make-up was nearly part of my daily routine.
There are so many things Elissa would like to do and be, and she seems to be developing a sense of the importance of doing things one step at a time.
“I have a deeply embedded love and passion for people, so a career in health care as a doctor would be a dream come true. Of course, one must keep in mind that modelling is still at the centre of my dreams.”
The young model enjoys being active at Ashton Primary school and is a keen participant in netball, athletics and hockey.
“Participating in a range of activities allows me to interact with my peers, and I do all these things with a smile, if only to spread positivity in the world.”
The IMTA has given this young dreamer much confidence, not to mention an opportunity to achieve her dreams. “She has done us all very proud as a family, and we will continue to support her as far as possible,” her aunt, Alta le Roux, said. “She has so much potential and hopefully this platform is the key to unlocking this for her.
“I’m excited to think I can pave the way for others in the community and be an example, showing that coming from a small town does not mean having small dreams.”
Anyone wishing to connect with Elissa can reach her mom, Irma Conradie, on 072 825 7240 or via email at irmaconradie85@gmail.com.
