The faces of tomorrow

The four winners will ultimately go on to become important ambassadors for the brand. Their appearance in numerous brand brochures, newsletters and at key events means that they literally do become the faces of the brand over the next year, each embracing this exciting challenge with her unique personality and style.

The search began in October 2007 and the criteria were simple, each winner needs to radiate the essence of the South African nation and in her own unique way embody the brand's ongoing quest for a brighter and more beautiful tomorrow.

The judges, including Miss South Africa 2008 Tansy Coetzee and local make-up artist Piers Braybrooke, narrowed the field down to the final 12 from the 1438 entries were received; entrants ranged between the ages of 18 and 25. The final 12 contestants were judged in a one-on-one interview with the judging panel.

The four faces that shone through the crowd as the 2008 Faces of Avon were Cindy Lee Laverene, Kitso Loarto Masego, Lasershni Nambiar and Michelle Ann Gildenhuys.

In addition to the title, winners will also receive their share of prizes worth over R195,000 from co-sponsors; Southern Sun, Tomato, Europa Art Shoes, Cosmopolitan, Abraham Louisa, Ray Ban and Countours Express.

Faces of Avon biographies

CINDY-LEE is a 23-year-old publications manager. She hails from Johannesburg and believes in embracing every opportunity that comes her way. She describes herself as “behind-the-scenes chick who makes things happen” so being in front of the cameras is a new experience for her.

KITSO (19) is currently studying accounting at the University of Stellenbosch. A confident people's person, she aims to be a chartered accountant one day and would love to combine this with a modelling career.

LASERSHNI is 24, studies transport management part-time at the University of Johannesburg and is a partner in two fast-food stores.

MICHELLE (20) is a part-time model and is studying for her BA through UNISA. A self-confessed “drama queen”, she says she lives her life as if she's a “star waiting to be discovered”.

Cindy Lee Laverne
Kitso Masego
Lasershni Nambiar
Michelle Ann Gildenhuys