Colleen Stafford, a passionate advocate for ending gender-based violence (GBV), is making her mark in the world as a Miss Grand South Africa finalist. Born in Kwa Zulu Natal but raised in Johannesburg, Colleen’s journey has taken her across borders, both geographically and culturally, and has fueled her determination to make a difference.
Colleen’s love for traveling was ignited during her time as a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) teacher. Through this experience, she had the opportunity to visit four countries, immersing herself in different cultures and exchanging knowledge. It was during these travels that she discovered a new world teeming with life and made lifelong friends. However, it was not only the sights and sounds that captivated her; it was the diverse culinary experiences that left her enthralled. Colleen found solace and joy in the kitchen, where she could freely explore different aromas and tastes, making it her happy place.
Drawn to the world of fashion and beauty, Colleen found a platform where she could express herself, embrace her uniqueness, and inspire others to do the same. As a pageant girl competing for the Miss Grand title, her advocacy is centered around raising awareness of gender-based violence. Colleen firmly believes that no individual should ever have to endure the pain and trauma inflicted by GBV. She emphasizes the importance of global unity in addressing this pressing issue.
In a recent interview, Colleen highlighted the three essential components that make a potential Miss Grand resilient and dedicated to making a difference: beauty, brains, body, and business. She believes in the concept of “beauty with a purpose,” recognizing that true beauty lies in using one’s platform to effect positive change.
Beyond her involvement in the modeling industry, Colleen is deeply committed to her personal life, which revolves around her passions for teaching and cooking. Her fulfillment stems from teaching English as a foreign language, where she witnesses firsthand the transformative power of education. By helping students from diverse backgrounds improve their language skills and broaden their horizons, Colleen contributes to creating a more inclusive and understanding society.
When asked about her message to fellow models, Colleen emphasizes the importance of empowerment and solidarity. She reminds her peers that their influence extends far beyond the runway; they possess the power to inspire positive change and uplift others through their words, actions, and platforms. Colleen urges models to remain authentic and true to themselves amidst the pressures of the industry, emphasizing that their voices matter and their stories are worth sharing.
In her quest to raise awareness about gender-based violence, Colleen has initiated her own project called “Rise Up,” which is set to go public soon. Through this project, she aims to provide information on how to help and seek assistance for individuals suffering from GBV. Colleen’s dedication to creating a safe and supportive environment for survivors of gender-based violence is commendable, and her commitment to making a difference is truly inspiring.
As Colleen Stafford continues her journey as a Miss Grand South Africa finalist, she stands as a beacon of hope, advocating for an end to gender-based violence. Through her platform, she seeks to unite communities, inspire change, and create a world where every individual can live free from the fear of violence. Colleen’s passion, resilience, and determination serve as a powerful reminder that together, we can make a difference and bring an end to gender-based violence once and for all.
