Our nation is packed with talented and creative individuals who possess a unique ability to captivate, innovate and push boundaries. SA is home to accomplished musicians, actors, designers and models. Among the talented superstars of South Africa, Lisa-Marie Jaftha shines bright.
Jaftha, who has worked as an international model for more than 10 years, was born and raised in the southern suburb of Wynberg in Cape Town.
Picture: @lisamariejaftha / Instagram
Having embarked on her modelling journey at a young age, Jaftha has amassed an impressive repertoire of international experience spanning more than ten years. She has had the privilege of collaborating with renowned global brands such as Carolina Herrera and Sports Illustrated.
Picture: @lisamariejaftha / Instagram
In a virtual interview with the Cape Argus, Jaftha, known for her soft-spoken nature, shared insights about her life in the US, the lessons she learned while jet-setting across the globe, her accomplished goals and the significance of being South African when living far away from home but connected through a camera lens, reported IOL.
Picture: @lisamariejaftha / Instagram
Reflecting on her unexpected career, she expressed:
“I never imagined myself becoming a model or experiencing everything that I have. In my younger years, my aspirations revolved around music, allowing my artistic passion to guide me. However, it seems that destiny had different plans in store for me.”
Picture: @lisamariejaftha / Instagram
Having initially doubted her suitability for the beauty industry, Jaftha believed she lacked the conventional attractiveness required for on-screen or print representation. Her perception changed when her mother gently encouraged her to give it a try. At the time, she sceptically assumed it would lead nowhere, unaware of the remarkable journey that awaited her.
She said:
“I remember my first modelling gig, well the memorable one was in Cape Town. I booked the commercial for Aquafresh, and it was a global campaign. I knew I wanted more success after that. Yes, I still worked other jobs, here and there in Cape Town. I worked at Pep Jeans in Woodstock. Before I began modelling internationally I went to India as a cheerleader for the IPL.”
Picture: @lisamariejaftha / Instagram
Since that pivotal first gig, Jaftha has been fortunate to explore various locations as a result of her modelling career. Over the past decade, she has lived, worked and immersed herself in the vibrant cultures of Istanbul, India, Germany, London and the US.
Reflecting on missing home, Jaftha said that she dearly missed her parents and her beloved brother. She also shared her cravings for foods such as biltong, malva pudding and takeout from KFC and Steers.
Shared by Cape Etc.
Feature Image: Instagram / @lisamariejaftha
