But that was not the only reason celebrities, media, sponsors, Samaritans and sponsors braced the chilly weather, it was Miss SA’s pre-birthday party.
And Sun International’s property Altitude at Times Square, Menlyn was the host venue.
The dazzling and unpretentious Demi-Leigh Nel-Peters (turning 22 on Wednesday June 28) launched the Unbreakable Campaign following her ordeal of an attempted car hijack earlier this month along the Jan Smuts Avenue busy road, Johannesburg.
As a result, she would like to initiate resources centers countrywide that will handle women issues who have or are experiencing abuse or attempted high-jacking, among others.
“It was an awful experience but I knew how to handle the situation in the best possible way because I had done a defensive driving course as well as a workshop for women that focused on everything from hijacking and robberies and how to handle these situations to how to get out of toxic and abusive relationships.
“I am a firm believer that knowledge is power and the information I learnt on these courses certainly helped me. I want to set up similar workshops around the country as well as a resource where women can get information about places that can help them when they find themselves in dire situations.
“I hope to hand over my crown next year knowing that I did everything in my capability to inspire woman to believe in themselves, to value themselves and to know that asking for help does not mean you are weak.”
In the midst of a grand evening was a Good Samaritan, Amit Niv who came to her rescue during the attempted car-hijack ordeal.
Amit was the only lady, who had a nerve of steel to help out our Miss SA, when she was running down the road asking for help, as other motorists looked on.
“Momentarily, I was scared when she knocked on my window, but I composed myself and opened door. She was hysterical and the only thing I could do was speed off and ask questions later,” says Amit, with a sigh of big relief.
“I didn’t know who she was. To me it was just a young, beautiful lady who needed help.
She only related her story and opened up about herself after getting help,” she told SLM.
I’m glad I could help, that’s all, she says shyly.
