Liezel van der Westhuizen is one of those celebrity personalities that captures the true essence of what being in the spotlight is all about. As a seasoned professional, Liezel has graced our television screens for 11 years, entertained us for many hours on radio and brought us captivating digital content that will be remembered for many more decades to come.
Nicknamed ‘the giraffe’ in local designer Craig Jacobs’ Sunday Times column in 2009, when she and her even taller sister Monique appeared in killer heels which made them tower over other attendees at a Radisson Blu fashion event. Although the moniker was not meant to be flatteringly at the time, Liezel, as a clever entrepreneur, went on to incorporate it into everything she does, including launching The Giraffe Brand Academy. This Academy has been set up to assist business people all over the world to build powerful and authentic personal brands which take them to greater heights of success.
As the second woman in the world to present Idols, Liezel became a familiar face on the popular reality TV show during Seasons Five and Six. She has also been a presenter on SABC3’s daily breakfast show, Expresso and she has presented TV shows for channels SABC3, SuperSport, SABC Sport, MNET, DSTV and SABC 2. Liezel lists her career highlights as Idols, Expresso, The Lunchbox and Soundcheck.
‘The Giraffe’, as the statuesque talent is affectionately known as, works five days a week as a fitness presenter on three separate radio stations: KFM 94.5 (Western Cape), Radio 702 (Gauteng), and CapeTalk (Cape Town). Liezel is also a regular feature on the television program ‘5 Colour Fitness’ on Supersport television’s Variety 4 (Channel 209).
She debunks fitness myths, updates listeners on breaking fitness news, inspires audiences to get up and get healthy – regardless of their size, sports background (or lack thereof), and fitness level; and she also reviews an incredible range of products before you go get them, she’ll take on TikTok challenges and wellness trends, and does so much more. Liezel is the reputable source you want giving you guidance on workout crazes, fitness safety and a heap of inspiration to get moving and healthy – the fun way! With so much going for her, it’s hard to believe it has been just a few years since Liezel was ‘discovered’ by Jacaranda FM after the programme manager heard her broadcasting as a Makro announcer whilst she was studying and working at TUKS FM.
Liezel describes her stature and presence in the entertainment industry as a ‘huge responsibility – one I gladly bear’. Being in the spotlight for over 10 years has given her the opportunity to not only amplify the voices that she believes would not always have been heard, but has also enabled her to be an ally of movements and efforts that share her values and preferences.
Having recently celebrated 11 years in the entertainment industry, Liezel has proved that her brand image is a force to be reckoned with. She has managed to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving market that has changed dramatically over the last ten years.
‘As I have grown with my brand, it has led me to grow bigger and better within the market. In part, my continued relevance comes from connecting with interests that people find fascinating and enjoyable, but also pushing the bounds of what we do, and what we know. I encourage people and companies to think differently, to do things differently, and to always carry positivity and authenticity through whatever they are involved in.’
‘I believe the value that I offer as a quality Personal Branding Coach, Keynote Speaker, Presenter, and in my various other roles like Voiceover artists, has earned me the reputation of being a dependable creative talent over many years; and that results in my continued position at the forefront of what is happening in the industry,’ Liezel says.
So what makes Liezel unique in her own right? The blonde Capetonian who originates from Johannesburg, has cleverly and professionally established her brand within formidable corporate markets and used her experience in television and radio to develop ideas that we might describe as ‘absolute genius’. Her career focus is not exclusive on radio and television. She also posts regular Personal Branding Tips and runs The Giraffe Brand Academy – a Personal Branding Coaching company offers a series of Personal Brand and Presenter Training Liezel believes in diversity, which is why The Giraffe Brand Academy will be accessible to anyone, who wants to improve their market, job or social media presence.
‘I have had the pleasure of coaching executives and entrepreneurs in more than 6 countries and over more than 2 continents. My clients’ current base includes China, the United States of America, South Africa, Italy, the United Kingdom and many more locales,’ she says.
Hardworking, determined, multifaceted and unique are just a few words that describe Liezel. A true Entrepreneurial master in her chosen career path!
Photography: Courtesy Images
