Promise land: Willemse dreams big, pro card her sight
Boksburg sports model Cindy Willemse is heading to Dublin, Ireland, to the 36-nation NABBA-WFF World Championships scheduled for November 6.
This is after the 36-year-old impressed the judges at the NABBA-WFF national championships which were recently held in Pretoria.
Her journey to the worlds began when she was crowned champion at the NABBA provincials in September which were also held in the nation’s capital.
This achievement qualified her for the national championships.
“I was stunned when they called my number saying that I’ll be representing SA at the worlds,” exclaimed Willemse, who was competing on the national stage for the first time.
“Five of the top six ladies beside me were all 23 so I feel very good about myself.
“It was a day full of excitement but also anticipation as I didn’t know what to expect. My line-up was huge and the competition was tough. The girls came from all over SA representing their different provinces and were world-class standard,” she explained.
“I need to give Alet Lemmer, president of NABBA-WFF and Manie Lemmer, and their team a huge shout-out as the show was so well organised; the athletes were handled in such a good manner.”
Her latest honour has without a doubt made this year arguably her best in her professional career.
It was preceded by her being chosen to be the brand ambassador for giant health and sports brand, Biogen.
She also earned selection to become the ambassador for beauty products company Hannon.
Quizzed about her aim in Dublin, Willemse commented: “At this stage it still feels unreal; the idea to represent our country on a world platform is mind-blowing. I’m humbled but feel so privileged, blessed and honoured.
“Believe when I say I’m going to go out and give it my 500 per cent to make everyone proud and do my very best. Realistically, I’m going there to gain experience and to learn.
“There’s a saying: ‘The best education is self-education.’”
Willemse also paid tribute to her support network and sponsors.
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