Sasha-Lee Olivier: Things you didn’t know about SA’s Miss World hopeful
Regarded as a plus-size model because of her size 36 fit, Olivier could make history as the first unconventional model to take the crown.
Originally from Alberton, Johannesburg, the 27-year-old was the first runner-up at the Miss SA pageant in August 2019 which was eventually won by reigning Miss Universe Zozibini Tunzi.
Olivier is already in London and going through the early phases of the pageant. A double major marketing and psychology student at Wits University, she will contest the crown against 130 competitors.
What people may not know about Olivier is that she is quite the creative, enjoying fishing, listening to Beyonce’s music and watching Big Bang Theory.
Passionate about uplifting victims of sexual abuse
Museums are also one of her favourite places to hang out at while she has a passion for uplifting victims of sexual abuse. She revealed during the Miss SA pageant that she had been abused for several years as a child.
“I carried a deep sense of shame, believing for years that the constant attacks on me were my fault. I want men, women and children to know that they are not to blame for their abuse,” she said.
The South African beauty is also the founder of the Blue Jersey Foundation through which small firms can direct some of their profits into socially uplifting projects.
Role of beauty pageants
On the importance of beauty pageants, Olivier says they still have a role to play in our society.
“Like sport, they bring a country and the world together, acting as a vehicle that drives awareness on socio-economic issues. A shining example of this would be the “Beauty with a Purpose Projects” and the introduction of biodegradable sanitary towels that not only keep the girl child in school, but are also eco-friendly.”
Five more facts about Olivier
- According to the Miss SA website, her role models are Oprah Winfrey, businessman Vusi Thembekwayo and Ashley Graham.
- She loves cheese and cheesecake.
- She plays vintage video games a lot.
- She is inspired by former first lady of the US, Michelle Obama.
- She was raised by a single mother and is the eldest of three sisters.
The Miss World pageant will be broadcast on SABC 3 at 5pm on Saturday with members of the public being able to vote on the Miss World website, missworld.com, for the candidate of their choice.
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