Missosology.Org: Beauty Talks

What makes this year's Miss South Africa eminently impressive is her ability to exhibit passion and feminine power. She is on her way to establishing herself as one of Miss Universe 2005's frontrunners. 22 year-old Claudia Henkel described herself as having the ability to connect with people from all walks of life. Her beauty fires up from her deep ice-blue eyes, classic good looks & a stature that allows her to stand out. Beyond all these, you should be aware that this beauty has brains. Aside from being a model, she is also a brilliant law student. Get started now, you're here to learn new things & see more pictures of Miss SA....

• What three words best describe you & why?
I'd say open-minded since I have a natural curiosity for people as I believe that in certain situations, the most unlikely person can present the most valuable outcome. Humble- because I have a natural perception on life and people. Compassionate as this trait of mine surfaces through my energy and love for life.

• What was your childhood dream?

It was to be Miss South Africa and then to become Miss Universe for my country. That aside, I've always wanted to be part of the entertainment industry through acting or hosting my own Human Rights television program.

• What were the factors that led you to enlist at the Miss South Africa pageant?
Being a part-time model for 2½ years was thoroughly enjoyable but I soon felt like a commodity on stage, showing off designer outfits, but unable to express my individuality. The fact that I was unable to convey my opinions by just modeling on stage and then leaving had bothered me. Miss SA gave me the opportunity to use my beauty and brainpower together.

• What is your impression on beauty contests prior to participating in one?
I perceived the contest to be only a glamorous occasion but once I had made it through, I discovered that it entailed hard work, commitment and dedication.

• Can you put in picture the judging process that you went through as a contestant of Miss South Africa pageant?
The pre-judging took place over a number of weeks prior to the live event held last summer, 11th of December to date. Thousands of stunning women entered from all over South Africa and we were whittled down to just 12 finalists. The final judging was divided into 3 categories consisting of a rigorous interview session, swimwear and eveningwear competitions. The contestants who were best overall made it to the final 5 and that was announced during the live broadcast. After few intimidating moments, I was named Miss SA. It was a moment I'll never forget for the rest of my life

• What do you think are your qualities that helped you win the Miss South Africa crown?
Apart from being 1.83m tall, thus allowing me to stand out literally, I am very knowledgeable at interacting with individuals and groups of people. This I attained through my modelling and acting, but more importantly, through my legal background. Studying law gave me the advantage in terms of general knowledge. I'm also openhearted and open-minded. I consider myself as a fun loving & very flexible person. I am not easily intimidated by overwhelming situations.

• Is winning a beauty pageant important? Tell us about your responsibilities as Miss SA.
The Miss South Africa pageant does have significance. As Miss South Africa, I have been chosen as a diplomat for my country, thus, I am not only representing myself but I'm also a representative of my whole country. Winning is not the alpha and omega in life, but you always have to give it your best. This not only applies to beauty competitions but should also be implemented in everything you do.

• What is your opinion on activists' point of view that exposure of too much skin in the swimsuit competition disrespects women?
In my country, our Constitution and Bill of Rights guarantees autonomy of preference and religion. For that reason, I believe that if a particular religion finds the exposure of skin disrespectful to women, it is their belief and that must be respected. But every contestant does it with the freedom of choice, and that needs to be respected as well.

• What do you think is the biggest problem facing the society today and in what ways can you help solve it?
The HIV/AIDS pandemic is definitely a problem that affects people directly and indirectly. I am currently involved in an awareness campaign and endorsing an HIV/AIDS hospice in the North West province, which concentrates on the mental, physical and psychological well-being of those infected with the disease.

• If you were president of your country and right before you is a bill passed by Congress allowing Human Cloning as a legal procedure in the country, would you sign the bill or refuse the whole thing?
I would unquestionably refuse as my belief in God tells that He alone has the right to give life and although a body may be cloned, a person's soul is individual and unique, and that cannot be cloned.

• What are your passions in life?
I'm an avid animal lover and I enjoy spending time outdoors, particularly in the Kruger National Park. It's really a wonderful mode of relaxation. I also enjoy spending time with friends and family as well as being active in the gym. I enjoy music, people and the entertainment world.

• Can you tell something that is so interesting about you?
I have this unique ability to communicate and connect with people from all walks of life.

• How are you preparing yourself for the Miss Universe beauty pageant?
In the same way I did for Miss South Africa. Mentally, I'm currently brushing up on my knowledge about global issues. Physically, I follow a meticulous gym routine and diet. On the psychological side, I remain focused and passionate about what I hope to achieve.

• How will you describe your country to your co-candidates at Miss Universe?
South Africa supports a unique diversity of cultures, religion, people and topography that is supported by our breathtaking coastline and mountain ranges. Our history is inspirational and unique. It is an example to the world.

• How would you define "love"?
The feeling of "love" is so powerful. Love is too small for a word, so I describe it in four parts according to its letters. L stands for longing, O for overwhelming, V for voluminous and E for everlasting.

• Do you have a motto or personal quote that you live by?
I have chosen to live my life in such a way that I respect, benefit and enhance the life of others and that I give 100% in all aspects of my life.

• What is your greatest goal in life?
Firstly, my greatest goal is to win Miss Universe. I also aim to be successful in my various ventures. And I aspire to be an inspiration to the lives of others.

• What should pageant experts, your fellowmen, fans and beauty watchers expect from Miss South Africa at Miss Universe 2005?
That Miss South Africa believes in herself, that she can carry the title of Miss Universe 2005 as well as reaching people on a global level with her passions.

• Finally, leave a message to your fans & readers of Missosology.
I will be going to the Miss Universe Pageant carrying the energy of my country, my rainbow nation with the momentum of the wonderful enthusiasm of all my supporters. God bless, and see you there!