On the brink of motherhood, former Miss SA Natasha Vermaak reflects with Christi Nortier on her she plans to embrace her new chapter.

Natasha Vermaak (née Joubert) entered her first modelling competition at the age of 10 – and wasn’t thrilled about it. Her world revolved around her big brother, so the self-proclaimed tomboy dragged her feet shopping with granny for a dress at one of the popular clothing chain stores.

She secretly straightened her curls on the big day. When her mom arrived home from work, she ordered Natasha to wash her hair, air-dry it and wear it natural. There were tears. Fighting. Long faces. Until, to Natasha’s surprise, she won. 

She was amazed that she could walk onto stage as the rugby-loving, wild-haired karate kid and it would be more than okay – she could just be herself. Natasha returns to that lesson often, especially during her first attempt to gain the Miss SA crown and years later when it was placed upon her head. Now, she’s remembering that moment as she steps up and into the spotlight again – this time, as a new mother. And as whoever she may become after that… 

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Words: Christi Nortier 
Photography: Garreth Barclay, Jane Ulla, Supplied