It’s become somewhat expected that winners of the Miss SA pageant will become TV personalities. After Basetsana Kumalo successfully went from winner to Top Billing presenter and now executive produces the show and several others on various channels, it’s believed she started the trend.
Jo-Ann Strauss also made that transition, as did Melinda Bam, while Liesl Laurie is now a radio DJ. It may be a running joke for some, but those who understand the TV and media game go on to have fruitful careers in the entertainment industry.
After being the first runner-up of Miss South Africa last year, Adè, a medical doctor and an officer in the army, was crowned fairest woman in the country after Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters won Miss Universe in November last year.
With Adè van Heerden crowning her successor tonight, she will now have time to fully focus on the next chapter of her life – as a presenter on e.tv’s new breakfast show, The Morning Show, weekdays from 6am, which she co-hosts with seasoned broadcaster Tumelo Mothotoane, actress and presenter Michaela Russell, comedian, Jason Goliath and newcomer Tino Chinyani, who is a model.
Congrats on landing The Morning Show. What’s it like doing live television?
It’s been quite an adjustment, filled with adrenaline and fun. Waking up at 2.30am above and beyond my Miss SA schedule has been quite taxing, but I love every second of it.
What makes The Morning Show different and gives it the edge over its competitor, Expresso?
We are uncensored and provide accurate news. We discuss burning and uncomfortable issues and share our opinions as a team. It’s the perfect combination of serious news and lots of fun.
Which segment is your favourite on the show?
I love bringing Medical Mondays to the public, to educate everyone on current medical issues like diabetes, hypertension and flu. I also enjoy cooking and working with the chef in the kitchen.
You seem like someone who isn’t afraid to take on challenges, so was The Morning Show a challenge you believed you could conquer?
When hard work and opportunity meet, magic happens. It’s a great opportunity to learn the skill of live TV, and my co-hosts have supported me wonderfully.
It’s always interesting what a Miss South Africa chooses to do after her reign. Has TV always been part of the plan?
Media medicine has always been part of my plan and I feel incredibly blessed to have this platform to educate the public. TV presenter is just a part of my package that I’m working on.
Is there unnecessary pressure placed on Miss South Africas and their career choice after their reign?
Most definitely – but to be very honest, I have not felt any pressure. I have been working towards my purpose and I know that God leads me in every step I take.
How has your reign been?
Being Miss SA exceeded every expectation I ever had. It has pushed my limits, taught me to smile in very tough times, network in the most uncomfortable situations and grab every opportunity. I’ve met people I never thought I would and it’s afforded me opportunities to grow my personal brand. I leave this platform knowing that I have grown and now I can serve South Africa so much better than
before.
Tonight you are crowning the next Miss SA – what have you shared with the ladies that you think will bode well for them during their reign?
I’ve tried to mentor them and to be available for as much advice as possible. Knowing that it’s okay to not always have your ducks in a row is so important. We all have bad days, even as Miss SA.
Miss South Africa, Adé van Heerden is ready for the next step in her life
Besides the show, what else are you working on?
I am a lifestyle and culinary medicine enthusiast and South Africa is lagging a step behind when it comes to this preventative medicine focus. I am working towards being at the forefront of change in these aspects. I am currently still a uniform member and another dream of mine is to be able to make an impact a bit larger than just running a personal practice.
So why should we tune in to The Morning Show?
The Morning Show isn’t just a fluffy lifestyle show. We are real people and we discuss real topics. If you want to start your day with authenticity in a world filled with fake news, tune in.