Johannesburg - Lorna Maseko grew up in Alexandra with a love for dance. She learnt ballet at a time when other black girls weren’t and, when she turned professional, she was the first black South African woman to do this.
These skills would come in handy later in life, when she was chosen to be a judge on So You Think You Can Dance in 2013. Her love for TV saw her soar from strength to strength, presenting shows like Africa Showbiz News for SABC Africa, The Weekender on SABC News and Top Billing on SABC 3.
Maseko is also business-minded – she owns an events company – and aspires to be a media mogul.
FIRST HOLIDAY MEMORY?
The first place I travelled to overseas was Lausanne, Switzerland. I think I was about 15. I was there with other young ballet dancers from South Africa to attend our first international competition.
FAVOURITE PLACE IN SOUTH AFRICA?
I discovered Paternoster in the Western Cape through a Top Billing shoot I did and I think it’s one of the most gorgeous gems this country has. I couldn’t believe that we had our very own Mykonos (Greece) in our midst.
BEST HOLIDAY?
I think it has to be Hong Kong and Singapore. Contrary to popular belief I absolutely love the weather, humid as it is. I love that both these Asian countries are English-speaking and fast-paced. It feels like the world’s economies meet in Asia.
WHAT HAVE YOU LEARNT FROM YOUR TRAVELS?
I love how travelling opens your eyes and introduces you to different things. For me personally when I travel I’m inspired from a business perspective. I constantly think about how I can incorporate different business models or what would work best in our country.
IDEAL TRAVELLING COMPANION?
It depends where we’re off to… an accommodating person is best.
BEACH BUM, CULTURE VULTURE OR ADRENALIN JUNKIE?
Definite beach bum. I never want to be rushed or feel like there’s a sense of urgency for anything when I’m on holiday…
I also like to know about interesting features in a city or country I’m going to.
I’m definitely not an adrenalin junkie and would much rather wine and dine – and let’s not forget shopping.
GREATEST TRAVEL LUXURY?
Emirates first class, especially for those long, hideous flights.
HOLIDAY READING?
Entrepreneurial books, books that inspire me.
WHERE HAS SEDUCED YOU?
The Maldives, one of the Club Med resorts, breathtakingly amazing – one of the best shoots and semi-holidays yet.
WORST TRAVEL EXPERIENCE?
Going to London and thinking that the 4-star hotel I booked for was equivalent to a 4-star here at home.
Needless to say, it was the size of a matchbox and disgusting, despite its being in a really posh area in London.
BEST HOTEL?
Hotel Shangri-La, Hong Kong.
FAVOURITE WALK, SWIM, RIDE OR DRIVE?
Definitely drive. Any luxury car will do, Rolls-Royce, Bentley and the like.
BEST MEAL ABROAD?
I enjoy eating what the locals eat. But I am determined to try a Michelin-starred restaurant next time I travel.
FAVOURITE CITY?
Hong Kong and Singapore.
WHERE NEXT?
I’m off to London this month – really looking forward to that.
l Lorna Maseko is an established TV presenter and has been working in the media for several years. Catch her and the Top Billing team every Thursday at 7.30pm on SABC3.
Saturday Star