By Leila Samodien
South African actress Terry Pheto, of Tsotsi fame, will follow in the footsteps of Hollywood beauties like Scarlett Johansson, Halle Berry and Jane Fonda, as the new face of L'Oreal.
Today the 27-year-old was officially announced as the new national spokesperson for L'Oreal Paris.
Pheto starred in the Oscar award-winning film, Tsotsi, and also has a role in the local television series, Jacob's Cross.
She will endorse one of the cosmetic company's latest ranges, which is designed for dark skins.
In doing so, she joins a long list of accomplished celebrities who have been associated with the company's skincare campaigns, including Andie McDowell, Aishwarya Rai, Pierce Brosnan and Claudia Schiffer.
Speaking to the Cape Argus on Wednesday, Pheto said the offer was one she could not refuse.
"This is really a great opportunity for me as an actress and a person," she said.
"It is very exciting, I will get to meet talented people like Beyoncé and Jane Fonda, and just to be associated with them is truly a dream come true for me."
She said it was "an honour" to endorse the brand, especially because the product promoted ethnic beauty.
"There aren't many companies that have developed a range especially for African women," said Pheto.
"I think branding for me or any actress is essential; the brand and products you are promoting is very important."
She said her ultimate goal was to land a Hollywood lead role, and this deal was a step towards launching her career internationally, while forever being firmly grounded in South Africa, of course.