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THE VERY BEST OF BLACK EXCELLENCE
PHOTO
SELAMAWIT YIRGA
SEVENKNOWS PHOTOGRAPHY
(CHECK IN DAILY)
THE VERY BEST OF BLACK EXCELLENCE
PHOTO
SELAMAWIT YIRGA
SEVENKNOWS PHOTOGRAPHY
(CHECK IN DAILY)
There are some people whose presence lift up your spirit and bring a smile to your face. Millions of people in South Africa regularly tune in to see her on TV for that same reason. Jo-Anne Reyneke is a famous and very beautiful South African Actress. She is a rare gem.... easy to love-how could you not? Give her a movie role and watch as she genuinely becomes the part, and completely draws you in. She won
SAFTA Award Best Actress (2018) with 3 more SAFTA nominations after the win. She won The Simon Sabela Award for Best Lead Actress (2024) in 'A Queen’s Lobola'.
Jo-Anne is Zulu; that means Dignity, Authentic, Fearless, Brilliant, Courageous, Bold, Strong, Self-assured and Comfortable in who she...is-no attempt to put on airs. Hidden beneath all of that is a humble, down to earth, sensitive soul with a heart of gold....oh, but she is very guarded and no push over. She has those kind of eyes that see through people and can read people in seconds. Combine that with a creative brain-always busy...sometimes steps ahead.
(Photo: Seventtwo Photography)
BronzePage: It's so nice to be able to chat with you. What a day! Let's do it! You are a very famous actress in South Africa. You are confident, self assured, humble, very beautiful, great energy, but there is something else that comes across right away....your wisdom. You look so young and gorgeous but you have the mind of a sage. Help us unpack that.
Jo-Anne: Thank you so much for the compliments. I've never considered myself as wise. Throughout my life though, I've constantly heard it from those who are close to me. My best friend of 25 years Thando Thusi, says it to me almost daily. If I'm being honest I really don't feel like it comes from me, I feel used in those moments. It's like someone older and wiser lives within me and jumps at the opportunity to speak when I have a platform. I do appreciate that at least what is being said is helpful to those who are listening. I like to think of myself as loud and funny...I like to keep conversations light. Or maybe it's the Gemini in me...the duality I have.
BronzePage: Tell us about your upbringing. Your mom is Black and Zulu and your dad is White. Tell us about growing up in a biracial family.
Jo-Anne: Yes, I am the child of a biracial couple. My mom is Black, Zulu. My father is White, Afrikaaner. They had 3 kids of their own when they met. My mom had 3 Black kids from previous relationships; my dad had 3 white kids from his past relationships. Then there was me, the only mixed race in the family. I was half of everyone. For the first 5 years of my life, we lived with my dad, and all the kids. It was a good life from the pictures I've seen. Then they separated, and we moved back to KZN (Kwa Zulu Natal). My childhood was fun. We lived with anyone that would take us, so for me that meant endless friends. I loved it. I had no idea we were in bad shape....until I grew up, and started playing the horrible game of comparison.
My mom has always managed to get us a good education, I went to Alston Primary, then to Russell Girls High. I'll never know how my mom managed to pay my school fees, they were double what she earned. The power of a Loving mom- I guess.
BronzePage: You once said you used to be very shy. How then did you decide you wanted to be an actress? Did you always know this was your destiny and if not, how did it happen? Did someone encourage you? How did a very shy young girl decide to delve into acting?
Jo-Anne: Yes, I was quiet shy while I was growing up...not in my day to day, but anytime it was time to perform on stage, I would shrivel up and almost die. I always wanted to be on stage entertaining people. I did it at home all the time, it's only on stage that I would get so scared that I'd start crying. Also 'The Bold and The Beautiful' was a constant fixture in our home, and the lady that plays Brooke Logan, her performances inspired me. I wanted to do what she was doing. So when I met my Drama teacher in the 8th grade, it was life changing. She taught me the tools, and made me completely fall in love with the subject. I'll forever be grateful to Mrs Holness.
BronzePage: You said something that was very spot on; you said ' I welcome not being liked; I welcome being liked, I don't chase it..... it's exhausting not to be yourself. Tell us how you eventually morphed from a shy young girl into this very self-confident person.
Jo-Anne: I was a big people-pleaser while I was growing up. I was terrified to express my true real opinions, in fear of not being liked. So I suppressed them. I became everyone's favorite person, and for a while it worked for me- I was liked. Then I started observing people who boldly said what they wanted to say... I envied them; they seemed better than me, smarter than me, braver than me. Until I got tired of hiding myself, I couldn't go on another year not being me. So I started voicing my real opinion, and to my surprise, I wasn't hated for it, instead I found myself in some of the most interesting conversations, because they consist of give and take. Since then, I've embraced all of me, flaws and all.
BronePage: You have an unyielding faith in God. What a breath of fresh air in this world where people are scared to speak out about their religion for fear of offending someone else. Please feel free to share your thoughts...how did you become a Christian or was it something you grew up into?
Jo-Anne: I jokingly call my mother,' God's Girlfriend'. For as long as I can remember, we went to church every Sunday. My mom taught Sunday School so I had no chance of not knowing my Bible and God. I've always had faith. When I got to college, I became curious in other religions as I met different people, it was all so eye opening. However Christianity is what felt right to me, it feels like home. I found that the common thread in all religions, is to be a good person, who believes in a higher power. So that's what I mostly try to focus on.
BronzePage: Are you selective with your movie roles? We ask because when you act, you are so real and believable.... you become so lost in the role you are playing? Are you one of those actors who can play any part or you have to make sure the roles are tailor-made for your personality?
Jo-Anne: Unfortunately, in South Africa, we don't have the luxury to pick our own work. We take what comes, you get a brief and we do the work to fall in love with that character. In a way it keeps us sharp, you might get 3 characters over 3 years, who are similar, it becomes your job to make sure none of these characters are alike, just like no two people are the exactly the same, everyone has a different story, and that informs a lot about us. I really love what I do.
BronzePage: Most women are very careful about their hair and very few women would boldly change their hairstyle by cutting it very short. It takes some boldness and supreme confidence. You did it and you pulled it off. Please take us through that decision-making.
Jo-Anne: Hair is a big part of a woman's identity. I've always loved how different I feel with different hairstyles. Growing up my hair was always relaxed. It was long and beautiful, and the envy of a lot of people. I would even get comments like "why didn't my mom sleep with a white man? I'd have hair like that too!" For a long time, I loved my long relaxed hair, but at the end of 2 months when the relaxer was coming out, my hair was horrible! It was flat and brittle and had no life. So I got the idea to cut it all off, and start anew, with no chemicals this time. I've been Growing my hair for the past 5 years now, and it's beautiful, it's curly, (I never knew that) and it's full and healthy, it can do anything!
BronzePage: You won the Best Actress Award for the movie 'A Queen’s Lobola'. How was your reaction when you heard your name being called out as the winner?
Jo-Anne: I was absolutely shocked when my name was called. I was nominated amongst some of our best actresses in SA. Unfortunately, I wasn't there in person to accept my award, so my director on the film Ash accepted it on my behalf. It felt fitting, because this project was his baby, and he worked so hard to make it happen, I was glad he got the honor of going on that stage.
BronzePage: You have done many movies. There is always that movie that strikes a chord with the actor, maybe for personal reasons. Which is your favorite?
Jo-Anne: I have done a lot of shows. I've luckily loved a lot of my characters, but the one that excited me the most was Sli on "Side Dish" playing on Netflix. She was my first morally unstable character, and I had the most fun playing her. Until I played my last character. She's called BK, on an upcoming show, she's gritty, a mother and a hustler. It's not out yet, but it's coming soon to Netflix. I cannot wait for the world to meet her.
BronzePage: You have admirers world wide...no surprise. Would you ever do a Hollywood movie? Should we reach out to a few directors? And would you do movies in other African countries besides South Africa?
Jo-Anne: Yes I would love to act in Hollywood or Nollywood or any wood.. really.
BronzePage: Imagine Mission Impossible 9 featuring Tom Cruise and Jo-Anne Reyneke. A scene with Tom trying to convince you to jump out in a parachute before the plane blows up...you both have 60 seconds left.
Another good one will be Rush Hour 5 with Chris Tucker and Jackie Chan. They both fight to free you from a very dangerous situation.. Chris is your fiancé so it's very personal to him. Wait! We have one more; Bad Boys 5 with you, Martin Lawrence and Will Smith chasing after a very bad guy. You are a female Detective brought in to crack the case of a South African criminal now in Miami....someone you are very familiar with. You are the only one who can lead them to this guy. Oh wait! We have one more....What if Juliet Ibrahim ( who has been featured here) reads this and both of you-two very gorgeous women -go after bad guys in a Nollywood Movie.
Do you see great imaginationwe have.... What do you think of all these plots? Which one sounds better?
Jo-Anne: No, this is not a fair question!!! These are some of the biggest franchises, that I happen to be a huge fan of!!!! Why must I choose? Kevin Hart never has to choose!! I would jump to do any of the above.
BronzePage: Where can people see your movies and which ones are on Netflix?
Jo-Anne: You can watch me on Champions on Showmax, 165 episodes. You can watch Side Dish on Netflix a 4-part series. You can watch Red Ink on Showmax, to see my character. (We wont spoil it for those who have not seen it)-a very thrilling story. Or wait for my upcoming show on Netflix.
BronzePage: You are confident, drop dead gorgeous, successful. You are a woman of faith....you are divorced right? What kind of guys are you interested in?
Jo-Anne: A huge misconception about me is that I've been married. I've never been married, I'm not sure I even believe in marriage. I was with the father of my kids for 10 years and people just assumed we where married.
I've been single for 2 years now. It's not easy finding a man when you have 2 kids. That's why I prefer men who have children, because they understand. I've never had a physical type, I've always been into the intelligent guy with a great sense of humor. That's my type, whatever form it comes in, I'm open.
BronzePage: Do you have any other brand, fashion -line, or books you have written? Any special cause that you want us to plug.
Jo-Anne: No, I'm working on my first script. I initially wrote it in book form, now I'm converting it to script form. I'm scared and excited for people to ready my work. I've always loved writing, but I've never seriously written anything till now, this is me jumping off the cliff.
BronzePage: Jo-Anne, we can talk to you for days but we know how busy you are. One final question...what is ahead for Jo-Anne Reyneke? It's obvious your sharp mind is always working round the clock....what is the next project?
Jo-Anne: My best friend and I are looking into starting our own clothing brand. aimed at the LGBTQ crowd ..even though we are definitely straight ... we want to close an important gap that exists in the market place...…with classically beautiful timeless fashion.
Thank you so much for these questions. I had fun answering them. I look forward to seeing the article. I hope you have a great day.
BronzePage: We cannot wait for this one. If you only knew!!
(Last line from BronzePage. What a woman! Beyond remarkable....just spectacular and exemplary.
Jo-Anne Reyneke does voice over, and you should plan to invite her to a big arena and hear her speak, she is full of uncommon wisdom. She has a list of movies and television accomplishments: A Queen's Lobola, Champions, Side Dish, Broken Vows, Black Tax. The Estate, Isono, Isidingo, Kowethu......and she has no desire to slow down. It is easy to root or her and you have not heard the last from South African Treasure. Follow her on Instagram @joannereyneke.
We are her biggest fans. There is so much to come. You heard it here first).
I just wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for the beautiful article you wrote about me. It means so much to be seen and represented in such a thoughtful, genuine, and inspiring way. Your words captured not only my journey, but also the essence of what I stand for, and I am truly honored by the care and attention you put into every detail. It’s a rare gift to come across people who understand your story and amplify your voice with such integrity.
Thank you for highlighting my work, my passion, and the path I continue to walk with purpose. I’m truly touched by your support and so grateful for the platform you’ve given me through this feature.
Please know that this is more than just an article to me; it’s a reminder that authenticity and hard work are seen, and that connection through storytelling is powerful.
Thank You!!
------- Marion Reber
OUR RESPONSE:
Ms Reber,
We have worked with a lot of people, but you stand out.
Working with you was one very smooth and memorable experience. Your professionalism, attention to details, rare combination of ease and seriousness.... and just your timeliness; you made our job easier; we love you from the bottom of our heart. In spite of your busy schedule, you never kept us waiting.
It is easy to forget that you one of the most beautiful women alive with your humility and grace ..... very uncommon in todays society. That you took the time to write this note of appreciation is a confirmation of your uncommon grace and class. You are welcome back anytime.
It was a great pleasure !!
---- The BroncePage Team
Monalisa Okojie is famously referred to as “The Jewelry Designer to the Stars'' because she has catered to very many Hollywood Celebrities...the list is unbelievable.
The next few days are going to be very exciting as we delve into the life of this African Princess and founder of Nehita Jewelry.
Monalisa has been featured in Jet Magazine, Allure, Vanguard, Hollywood Weekly, LadyBrille and many other prestigious publications.
Nehita has been worn by celebrities such as the late Whitney Houston, Natalie Cole, Alan Cumming, Norah Jones, Nick Cannon, Rosario Dawson, Heidi Montag, Allison Kraus, Laila Ali, Halle Berry, Anthony Anderson, Melora Hardin, Josh Henderson, Sally Pressman, CCH Pounder, Lu Parker, Meagan Good, Lisa Ray, Hosea Chanchez, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Carrie Ann Inaba, Sisse Marie, Quinton Aaron, Randy Jackson, Christelle, Tiffany Haddish, Jackie Appiah, Ava Hall, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Wendy Raquel Robinson, Vince Gelonese, Ray J, Brandy, Nora Jones, Allison Krauss, Katy Perry, Alicia Keys, Melora Hardin, Michael Henderson, Omarosa Manigault, First Ladies of various countries as well as many others. There are so many more.
Tomorrow we bring you the story of Monalisa. Stay tuned.
We interviewed the empress herself a while ago and she was very candid, humble and forthcoming..... enjoy it.
BronzePage: Hello Monalisa, we finally get to do this. Where are you from in Africa?
Monalisa: Yes, thank you. I have been looking forward to this interview. I was born in Lagos, Nigeria, I am an Ishan Princess from Eguare, Irrua in Edo State, Nigeria.
BronzePage: First thing, let's talk about Nehita. Great name, with African ring. What does Nehita mean?
Monalisa: Nehita means 'What God Gave Me', it is actually my middle name.
BronzePage: Tell us about the business aspect. What is Nehita for those who do not know?
Monalisa: Nehita Jewelry started as a hobby, but now has been built as a lifestyle of designs that integrates culture, transcends time and embodies sophistication. Nehita is based on designs inspired by my international travels and knowledge. It is also important for me that people know that all of the gemstones used in the collections are from conflict free countries.
I understand the global immersion of fashion, the business has grown on both the African, Asian and American continents. Nehita’s designs are already in Ghana, Nigeria, Canada, China, United States of America and Dubai.
BronzePage: What inspired you to start such a business?
Monalisa: After I moved to Los Angeles, California, I sought for 18 karat gold jewelry but could not find any jewelry that was close to the kind I grew up wearing or saw my Mum and Aunties wear in Nigeria. When an opportunity came for me to travel with my Aunt to Dubai, I jumped at it. On my visit, I went to the Gold Souk, I was like a kid in a candy store, every design I ever imagined was there. I got some pieces for myself. After wearing them for a few months, I decided to alter the designs with the help of a local goldsmith here in Los Angeles. After a few weeks of a handful of compliments from friends, strangers and family members, I thought to myself, 'if I could alter these designs to look like brand new pieces of jewelry, then I can wear my creative hat to start making designs with 18 karat gold here in Los Angeles'.
My inspiration as you can see started off as a hobby, re-designing my personal pieces of jewelry and now it is a full time business. Nehita designs are constantly evolving, from unique and colorful fabrics worn in traditional settings to beautiful flowers, plants, paintings or the vibrant colors in our everyday lives. One is never far from their culture and their roots. I invested so much into my creations that my husband challenged me by asking if it was a “hobby or a business.”
BronzePage: You are a trained attorney. Can you tell us more about your background?
Monalisa: I am the third of five children. I attended St Mary’s Private school in Lagos, (Nigeria) for my primary education, then Federal Government Girls College in Calabar for my secondary education. For my college degree, I attended and obtained my Bachelors of Law degree from the University of Ekpoma and then Barrister at Law from Nigerian Law School in Lagos, where I was called to the Bar in 1997.
BronzePage: How did you decide to make that lane change from law to jewelry design?
Monalisa: Two extremes right? My career as a designer started off as a passion. While I was working at a law firm in Los Angeles, I would create and design pieces for myself after my trip to Dubai as I mentioned above. With approximately eight years of law practice, I decided to fulfil my dream as a jewelry designer. I began attending classes at the Gemological Institute of America, located in Culver City, and immersed myself in the beauty and science of gems and the art of creating fine jewelry. It was scary going from a promising career to another. I knew I had no choice but to succeed in my new career path.
BronzePage: Now Beverly Hills. You are living many people’s dream.....meting the likes of Halle Berry, Boris Kodjoe, Katy Perry, Eve, Alicia Keys, Jill Scott, Common, Russel Simmons, Quincy Jones, Randy Jackson, the list goes on. Many people cannot get into that crowd, how did an African lady get accepted by these top notch celebrities. (completely unlike the Hollywood status quo. Walk us through it.
Monalisa: I must admit, I am blessed to have found the gateway to Hollywood and to be dealing with celebrities throughout my career. My charm was actually my accent, it draws attention to me. Everywhere I go, everyone I meet wants to know where my accent is from, it is always the first topic of conversation. As a proud Nigerian, with a big smile, I tell them “It is from beautiful Nigeria” and then the conversation continues. The next question is usually, “What do you do”?, then I tell them about Nehita, if conducive I show them some pictures of my designs. Most times the conversation evolves into wanting to introduce me to celebrities that love jewelry. I spent a lot of time networking within the right circles when I started Nehita in 2008. With God’s help I got to many places and met people I never dreamt I would ever meet- and they became my clients.
BronzePage: What or when was that first break (in Hollywood). . . every business has them?
Monalisa: I never envisioned that my fascination for jewelry and design would lead to Hollywood, California and to becoming known as the Jewelry Designer to the Stars. However, my first break was after I started designing jewelry pieces for the late Whitney Houston in 2010. She loved Nehita jewelry. She gave out Nehita diamond crosses to friends/family as gifts during their birthdays.
BronzePage: Tell us about your designs. How do you go about creating your pieces?
Monalisa: I am alays unconsciously creating, drawing from those memories which are incorporated from my African background and heritage. I stay away from designs that are in vogue, I create pieces that are classic and elegant and can be passed from generation to generation. I want people to see quality, craftsmanship and beauty in all Nehita pieces.
BronzePage: What are your goals for Nehita? Let us look through your telescope.
Monalisa: In terms of my business, I would like to see more exposure of the Nehita product-line; the Nehita scarf or Nehita jewelry. Although Nehita started out as exotic jewelry for women, we soon recognized that the number of men wearing jewelry had increased exponentially, we didn’t want to leave them out so I created a line for them. I would like to see my designs with worldwide visibility, not just with celebrities here in the US but all over the world.
BronzePage: You are so private about your personal life, but as a celebrity. I’m not sure fans afford you such privacy. Tell us about your husband and children.
Monalisa: I am very protective of my family. My husband is a lawyer, he has his own law firm in downtown, Los Angeles and in Calabasas both of which are in Los Angeles County. He is very supportive of all my endeavors, he even volunteers when needed. I have three children; I must say they all have been bitten a bit by the acting bug. I do encourage each of them to participate in our volunteer activities and teach them the importance of giving back. However, as I said, I am protective of them so you will probably not see them on the red carpet with their mother.
BronzePage: What are your plans for Africa? Any?
Monalisa: I am a patriotic Nigerian who represents her country wherever I go. However, I feel I am more than that; I am a global ambassador who uses her celebrity to give hope to the unfortunate and to the many lives I touch especially in Africa. This can be seen through Upward African Woman, a non-profit California-based organization, which I founded in 2013, whose mission is to give hope to disadvantaged women and children all over Africa. We currently have schools in Nigeria, Kenya and Ghana, where we educate, feed and care for women and children. The organization tackles issues of poverty, disease and illiteracy.
BronzePage: What do you want your friends, fans and the world to know about Africa?
Monalisa: First of all, I want them to know that I am a proud African and I stay true to my African culture and upbringing. I feel extremely blessed to be from a continent with such a colorful culture, a continent where we love to dance and celebrate at every given opportunity, a continent rich in natural resources, a welcoming culture where we see each other as brothers and sisters, despite the high level of poverty in most African countries. Some important facts that people should know about Africa are that there are no tigers in Africa. We speak over 1,000 languages. We have the deepest and most powerful river in the world in Congo. I must also add that the biggest misconception is that Africa is a Country, it is a Continent. My Africa is beautiful.
BronzePage: What are your hobbies?
Monalisa: Dancing, reading, cooking, empowering young ladies to be leaders and watching good action movies.
BronzePage: For a young African child who is inspired by your story, please share with them what they must do and what pitfalls to avoid.
Monalisa: Get the best education that you can. Next, follow your dreams and desires, find out what you are really good at and develop that talent. Doubt will come along the way but don’t give up. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication to succeed in business. It is important, that they should give back to the underprivileged, a smile, words of encouragement, gifts and love go a long way to many people. Finally, choose your friends wisely and you will avoid many pitfalls.
BronzePage: How can our readers get in touch with you (website, twitter, Facebook, any other platforms), phone if necessary.
Monalisa: The Nehita website is http://nehita.com/. Facebook: Nehita Jewelry; X: @nehitajewelry; Instagram: @nehitajewelry, phone number 1.213.471.2310
BronzePage: Tell us something many people do not know about Monalisa. We must know something no one else knows (smile).
Monalisa: Hahahaha… that I am a great cook, I can cook pretty much any kind of food and I absolutely enjoy cooking.
BronzePage: Do not be a stranger. you are always welcome here.
Monalisa: Thank you, you are so kind. I must say this has been an interesting interview.
BronzePage: What an absolutely delightful woman.
Micaela Reis was born in Portugal to an Angolan mother and a Portuguese father. Her father died before her birth, so she was raised by her mother. She got the world's attention when she was crowned Miss Angola -2007. She represented Angola at the 2007 Miss Universe, where she made it to the top 10 (she placed 7th).
She competed at the 2007 Miss World Beauty Pageant, which was held in China. She finished as the 1st Runner-up to the winner, Chinese Zhang Zilin. There she was named Miss World Continental Queen of Africa at this event.
We once chatted with this stunner and she was very forth-coming. Micaela is now an Actress, Producer, Businesswoman, TV presenter, and Philanthropist.
We are unveiling a profile of one of the most beautiful women alive and we will give you a glimpse into her beautiful mind in an unforgettable interview.
BronzePage: Micaela....It's nice to have you. Welcome to BronzePage! What do you tell a woman who is this beautiful and the whole world already bears witness to her beauty...Miss World Africa? Miss Angola and runner up to Miss World [ by the way we think you should have won that competition in China] so do we really have to say 'You are very beautiful?' Seriously ..real talk. How does it feel when you have been told all your life that you are very beautiful? Does it ever get to the stage where you are numb to such complement?
Micaela: Thank you! I don't think compliments are ever too much especially if they are sincere. I am actually glad when people give me compliments as they only reinforces your confidence and helps me feel even better about myself.
BronzePage: Someone in our team said it is almost unfair that any woman should be as beautiful as you. Do you get the awestruck look a lot?
Micaela: (Smile) I think beauty should be appreciated all the time. When I say 'beauty' I am speaking in terms of all types and forms of beauty.
BronzePage: At what point in life did you notice you were blessed with such good looks? Some women say it can also have its drawbacks because you are always expected to stand out in a crowd. You cannot simply blend in; is that your experience?
Micaela: It's so funny, while I was growing up I never thought of myself as one of those 'Pretty Girls" in school, my friends were; but after winning Miss Angola, I started looking at myself differently and started accepting and appreciating what I have. A lot of times people expect nothing more from pretty women other than ' Just -be-pretty', That is something that bothers me....we have a lot more to offer than good looks.
BronzePage: Absolutely!!
BronzePage: What is it about Angola? Many beautiful women have come out of Angola. Is there something about Angola? Four years after you became the runner up to Miss World, Leila Lopes- also from Angola - was crowned Miss Universe....What a record …..should all single guys go to Angola?
Micaela: Ha ha ha.....Totally! Angolan women are beautiful, strong, intelligent and have a sense of humor: the perfect pair ….ha ha!
BronzePage: Tell us more about Angola, for those of us who have never been to that country. What is it about Angola that you wish the rest of the world should know about?
Micaela: Angola is a really nice country to visit. We have really nice weather, beautiful beaches, the people are super-friendly. It is a great place for business as well.
BronzePage: How about your mother? How was it raising you and your siblings without your dad?
Micaela: My mom is the most important person in my life, followed by my siblings. We are all very close and have a great relationship. They have always been there for me and I am thankful that God gave me my family.
BronzePage: How did you decide you wanted to take part in your first beauty pageant? What was the deciding factor? We ask this because had you not taken that first step, you would never be who you are today....that fine line between ' Yes I am going to do this or, No, I wont'.....is usually what makes the difference. For young girls aspiring to follow your footsteps, what was the turning point?
Micaela: My mom was the one who called and registered me for the casting. I never thought of becoming Miss Angola but I think it was my destiny. I was afraid because
I didn't know what I was getting into but I always did my best and I've always been myself- that is most important.
BronzePage: It is almost impossible to enumerate all your achievements; you have done so much in such a short time.....from that sweet girl to Miss Angola, you were among the top ten at the Miss Universe pageant, then you became the Miss World runner up, you were crowned Miss World Africa. You are an actress, TV Host, judge in a pageant....the list goes on. You were so young, you were not even thirty years old. Everything came together for you Micaela, how does that feel? What special prayer did your mother pray so we can pray it?
Micaela: [Laughs] I still have a lot to accomplish. I believe that God has been the one guiding me all these years. I also have a family that supports me a lot and I am really dedicated to what I am doing. I believe that we have to put in our best in everything we do in life. I always look to learn more and I also try to constantly improve. I never put limits on myself, my dreams are big. I have been working towards them and they will come true whenever God says it's the best time, until then I will continue to work hard.
BronzePage: You have done quite a few things on television from Vo Directo and Windeck; what else have you done and what do you have lined up?
Micaela: I have also hosted Elite Model Look-Angola/Mozambique and Cape Verde for 3 years. I have been invited to continue to work on TV.... and finishing my degree …really hard to do both.
BronzePage: Do you have any foundation or projects? What are they and what about them appeal to you?
Micaela: I am working on workshops that I will start with kids who do not have access to any form of art. I have a lot of super talented kids in Angola. I also have my bikini line Praia Moreno by Micaela Reis....we are currently working on a new line. I also want to help my country as such as I can with all my art.
BronzePage: What is your favorite city in the world and why?
Micaela: It is hard to pick a favorite city but I would pick Benguela in Angola. I want to live there one day if I retire.
BronzePage: Name one person alive or dead who inspired or inspires you?
Micaela: Nelson Mandela of course and someone else that I really like is Augusto Cury.
BronzePage: Are you religious? Christian? Budhist?Muslim? Non-religious?
Micaela: Yes, I am a Christian!
BronzePage: Your position is very important; It is a privilege to be who you are. What would you like to spotlight, change, improve...both in Africa and the world in general?
Micaela: I really want to give kids more access to Education, Arts and Culture. I believe what Nelson Mandela said, 'Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.' My goal is to help more people to gain access to education.
BronzePage: What are your hobbies? What else do you like to do?
Micaela: I am into Muay Thai boxing, I like to hike, I am learning how to swim. I love to watch movies and I like to read....also I have a blog where I write about various topics.
BronzePage: People do not always get to see this side of you, Micaela, but you are a very smart and brilliant person, if you did not become a beauty queen, what else would you have done intellectually?
Micaela: My intellectually side still exists.....[laughs] but instead of pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts, I probably would have become a judge,
BronzePage: This was an absolute pleasure, is there anything else you would like to share? We can do this all day...its so easy to chat with you.
Micaela: I think we covered a lot.
BronzePage: What a very beautiful woman with a very beautiful mind.
We love and appreciate Africa and our hope is that the rest of the world also sees the beauty in that amazing continent, however some of the most terrible inhumanities have also occurred in Africa. We cannot overlook the pain and sufferings of many people in Africa; to do so would be atrocious. We present to you the story of a woman who saw these first hand and rose to tell her story unlike many people whose voices died in the grave. Hers is a story of a woman who endured untold hardship during the war in Rwanda, a story that would baffle the minds of most people in modern societies....it is almost impossible to grasp. Man's inhumanity to man. Yet she saw the light.
For the next few days, you are about to get transfixed by the story of Sonia Gisa.
At an age when kids were playing innocently in the yard, she saw deaths by the thousands. A war that killed her family.... many people did not make it out alive, but she did and rose to prominence. A reminder that no matter how dark your life may be, there is light at the end of the tunnel. Never give up!
BronzePage! We do it like no one else.
Sonia Gisa was only 3 years old when her family was forced to flee from their home in Rusenga, Rwanda. To keep them safe, her father decided they should separate because the men were the ones that were mostly being killed. That was the last time Sonia saw him alive. He was killed! Then the family (comprising of her mother, her three sisters and baby brother) endured about two months of near starvation and sickness as they took refuge in a school. It was too much for her brother, he did not make it...he died. The family had to flee again...this time she lost her sisters and her mother …she was now alone and as fate would have it, she moved in with her aunt. It is an experience that still haunts her.
We asked her!
BronzePage:'Your parents were killed in 1994, you did not leave for Europe till you were about 18, how did you cope?
Sonia Gisa: ''A major part of my direct (and not direct) family perished in the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. It is something that, even 31 years later, I still struggle to understand how humans can turn against their own... to that extent.
Although many governmental programs were put in place to help with school fees and a few other basic needs, I bonded with my cousins, and despite all we had lost, we had a happy childhood surrounded by nature.
It wasn’t until I was 18 years old that the opportunity arose for me to go to Europe, and I had the chance to redefine myself on my own terms.
So, that’s when the journey toward my biggest dreams started and now, here we are''.
(Three decades later, the experience is still too much for her. BronzePage decided to stop the interview and switch our focus to what she has become and the bright lights ahead.
Her tragic experience is well documented in the book : Slaughter Baby. You can find it on Amazon.
In 2009, Sonia Gisa moved to Belgium from Rwanda; she was 18 years old and faced a whole new world. She was like a stranger in a strange land. The adjustment was not easy as she had to learn the language and be able to communicate well, she also dealt with life in a new school, coupled with trying to get a job and an apartment. Sonia was determined and each time she met the struggle with resolved strength.
She discovered her love for modelling and threw herself into it when the opportunity arose. She became one of the top models representing such major brands as Dior, Gucci, Yves-Saint -Laurent, Dolce and Gabanna, Moschino.
It was as if the future opened up for her. She delved into beauty pageantry and represented Rwanda in Miss Supranatural. The final event was held in Poland in December, 2014. Sonia won !! She told BronzePage '' It was sensational, I went home with the title of Miss Supranatural Africa.....it was the first time the crown went to Rwanda'.
Talk about redemption! What an irony, the very country where she experienced untold pain and tragedy, the same country where her life was almost destroyed, it was that same country, she represented and placed on the world map.
She also took part in Miss Grand International, which took place in Las Vegas in 2016.
Sonia told BronzePage "It was an incredible experience, and I learned a lot from it. Beauty pageants played a big role in helping me feel confident on stage and in public speaking. Additionally, you get to meet and connect with different contestants representing their own countries you discover new cultures and build an international friendship circle''.
Sonia Gisa is now an International Model and Actress, United Nations Goodwill Agent, War child Charity Ambassador, Advocate for ' Let Them Play" (Children belong on the playing fields not the battlefields) Author, Life Coach and Motivational speaker. She now resides in London.
'' I ask myself, how did a little girl born in a small village in Rusenga, Rwanda get here.''
'I get asked, ''How do you manage to display a personal smile and love life with everything you have gone through?' I answer, I have more reasons to smile, when you escape death you learn the value of each moment.'
''When I was parading (Modeling), I didn't think of anything else, I was 100% concentrated in the present....it was the most glorious moment of my life, there was no more painful childhood, no more trauma attacks or nightmares. I was simply blessed. I never thought that such a feeling could exist, that such a feeling of gratitude for life could be possible"
…."I have come to terms with the unsettling memories of this -anything but innocent childhood, and built a new strength to become myself. I turned what was an unbearable burden into a force for fearless progress, propelling me to London and into the world of the most prestigious players in Fashion'.
(Last word from BronzePage:)
'Speechless ….that so much Love, Grace, Humility, Kindness and Gratitude could come out of a woman who witnessed so much pain and human brutality especially at an age when other kids where playing in the fields.''
Words are not enough!!
She is a message to anyone going through trials: Never Give Up! Don't even think about it !! Life has so much in store for you'.
We present Brazilian Photographer Marcio Silva who is one of our most ardent supporters. Marcio Jose Candida da Silva is a talented and multifaceted artist and photographer whose work spans various areas of culture and arts.
His work has been published in renowned fashion and art magazines around the world, including QUADRO MAGAZINE (E
We present Brazilian Photographer Marcio Silva who is one of our most ardent supporters. Marcio Jose Candida da Silva is a talented and multifaceted artist and photographer whose work spans various areas of culture and arts.
His work has been published in renowned fashion and art magazines around the world, including QUADRO MAGAZINE (Europe, Canada, and the United States), SELIN MAGAZINE (Amsterdam, Netherlands), ARTELLS MAGAZINE (New York, NY), BEAUTiCA MAGAZINE (Canada), MALVIE MAGAZINE (France), 6X MAGAZINE (New York), FILLINI MAGAZINE (Italy), ECLAIR MAGAZINE (Paris, New York, global), GENZO MAGAZINE (Denmark), ROIDX MAGAZINE (France), KINOW MAGAZINE (global), and VIVA GRANDE BH (Brazil).
He has photographed nationally known models in Brazil and images of internationally renowned Brazilian artists. His keen eye for beauty and aesthetics earned him the INSPIRATION PORTRAIT seal by the international photography community. He has more than 50 works published and was awarded and certified by the annual international photography competition 35AWARDS in its 7th and 8th editions (2021 and 2022),-he was highlighted in various categories.
Instagram :@marcioblackfoto
Marcio takes us through one of his work and what was going through his mind when he photographed beautiful Brazilian Model Flavia Mayde. What a masterful job!!
''Photographing Flávia Mayde, Miss Black Beauty Senior, was an inspiring experience. Her goal is to convey charm, delicacy, strength, power and sensuality in a black and white pho
Marcio takes us through one of his work and what was going through his mind when he photographed beautiful Brazilian Model Flavia Mayde. What a masterful job!!
''Photographing Flávia Mayde, Miss Black Beauty Senior, was an inspiring experience. Her goal is to convey charm, delicacy, strength, power and sensuality in a black and white photograph, which requires a keen eye and precise technique.
The Choice of Black and White: Opting for black and white, highlights contrasts and textures, eliminating distracting colors while keeping the focus on form, light and shadow. This choice can intensify the expression of strength and power, while enhancing the model's delicacy and charm.
The Creative Lighting: Lighting is crucial. I used soft light to highlight the skin and delicate contours, while harder, more directional lights helped accentuate muscles and convey strength. Well-balanced shadow and light help create a dramatic and powerful effect.
Poses and Expressions: Flávia, an experienced model, certainly brought a variety of poses that convey her multiple facets - from warrior to friend. I decided to capture an expression that conveys confidence.
Instagram:
Photographer: @marcioblackfoto
Model: maydeflavia
Africa Fashion Week London (AFWL) is a yearly event that brings value to designers through, contacts, experience and knowledge within the fashion community.
With a collaborative catwalk, exhibition, and business development program, AFWL has led the way in highlighting Africa’s emerging designers and apparel industry and has been at the forefront of bringing awareness of Africa’s burgeoning fashion industry to the international market.
Designer & Exhibitor application form for AFWL 2025 is available on line: africafashionweeklondonuk.com
The name 'Noella' a feminine version of Noel, stands for ' Christmas day' or 'born on Christmas day'. This gorgeous Model and Philanthropist was born in the Democratic Republic of Congo on December the 25th while people all over the world were celebrating Christmas.
You are about to enter into the world of a woman who refused to turn her back on those she left behind. We bring you the story of the woman behind Malaika (her School for poor kids in Democratic Republic of Congo).
We cannot say enough about this woman. We have devoted the next few days to 'The Noella Story'. Her thoughts, her aspirations, her passion, her experience, her childhood.
Bronzepage does it better than anyone else.
Noëlla Coursaris Musunka was born to a Congolese Mother, and a father from Cyprus .
Noella's mother made a choice, a very painful one, but one that would pay huge dividends when she sent her daughter to live with relatives in Europe because she knew she was too poor to provide for her. Little Noella's journey to Europe started, from Belgium to Switzerland....for the next 13 years she had very little contact with her own mother except by mail.
Pause for a moment and try to comprehend the emotional clash and conflict in the mind of that little girl now living in a strange land without the comfort of the only woman she has ever known and fully trusted; her mother.
She made great use of her life in Europe by immersing herself in school. Noella's appreciation for education must have been born at this time. She graduated with a degree in Business.
Shortly after Noella completed her degree, one of her friends entered her into a modelling competition; good news of course, her life took a turn as her journey to the global stage just started. She was chosen to appear in a campaign for Agent Provocateur. Noëlla did various campaigns in New York and London as modeling gave her access to the pages of fashion magazines like Vogue, Elle, Vanity Fair and Marie Claire..... the doors just sprung wide open.
Unlike many successful people who forget their past and turn their back on where they came from, Noella had a burning desire to give back. As she traveled the world, she realized she deeply wanted to help and share her passion for human rights.
After 13 years in Europe, 18 year old Noella was now ready to visit her homeland and reunite with her mother.
The idea for Malaika was born when Noella went home to visit her mother. She saw the stark poverty and lack of opportunity for women in her country.
She founded Malaika in 2007, a nonprofit grassroots organization that empowers Congolese girls and their communities through education and health programs. Malaika’s projects are impacting thousands of lives in the community of Kalebuka and in Congo and are all offered completely free of charge.
These include an accredited school for over 430 girls, a Community Center built partially in partnership with FIFA that provides education, health, and sports programs to over 5,000 youth and adults each year, clean water for over 35,000 people each year through the building and refurbishment of 31 wells and an agriculture program, which helps feed students and staff two meals each day; and a technical program.
The minute Noella introduced Malaika to the world, more doors started to open for her. Her story was intriguing; a celebrity who was actually proactive, sincerely helping, giving back and not just talking about things that should be done.
Some of the magazines, platforms and opportunities that have showcased the Noella and Malaika Story are listed below:
Vanity Fair, Cotswold Style, Grazia, Shiffon,
Greek World Reporter, Forbes, Sandton,
Elle South Africa, Bizcommunity, Now in SA,
Laqua Magazine, Greek Reporter, Image, British Vogue,Fashion Network, Vouge India, Billionaire, Editeur Plus, Vogue Espana, Harpers Baazar, Elle Germany, L'Officieal, Tatler Ireland, Moda, Greek City Times, Vogue Australia, Cosmopolitan, Vogue, Neue Afrique, Leadership, Forbes, Actualite, South Africa Daily, True Africa, The St Raphael Resort & Mariana Magazine, Daily Mail, Global Fund for Children, Congo Airways Magazine, Africa News, CNBC Africa, Marie Claire, The Guardian, TV%. IGNYTE, CountryandTownHouse, Fashion Magic 42,
HARPERS BAZAAR, LacunaMagazine, SCHICK,
#CongoExcellence, Harper's BAZAAR Japan,
Women of Influence 'Meet a Role Model' Feature Questions, FOOT AU FEMININ (Cameroon), NEW AFRICA DAILY, MOJEH
Congolese Entrepreneurs, Kaieteur News,
Sustainability Forbes, Malaika Foundation Congo And Formidable Magazine, Telegraph, TAP Magazine, FORBES AFRICA, Afropolitan
Brune Magazine, Creative Wardrobe, Vogue,
Harper Bazaar, Sunday Times, Grazia, IIRR,
Congolese Prodigies LeCongolais, PORTER, Net a Porter, The Times, Luxx Philanthropy
INNOV MAG, Book "Lessons from life and business" by Facebook Inc., Actualite.cd,
APO Group, Magazine Congolais, Telegraph, Maverick Life, Vogue and Piaget, C'CHIC Magazine, Rachel SUMBU ( Radio de la Femme (Kinshasa), CIAB MAGAZINE, CHANGE IN AFRICA, Vogue Germany, Financial Times, Ici et Ailleurs Magazine, Marie Claire,
Hunger Magazine, Adunagow Magazine,
METAL magazine, African Shapers, Pride Magazine Nigeria's Woman of the Month: January 2022, Salon d'Afrique, Interview seSalon d'Afriquer, lemondefemin.com,
Hamaji, Sans Frontières mag ( FRENCH ),
CLAM Magazine, Elle Italia, Daily Telegraph,
Nigeria Business, Opt1mum Magazine,
VoyageDallas, HERA Magazine, Amazing,
Mayfair Times, Optimum, Marie Claire UK,
Sandy Times, Madame Arabia, Vogue ARABIA.....the list goes on. Some of these brands were not listed here.......just too many of them.
Malaika started as a small project sponsoring ten girls from a a local orphanage from a small village of Kalebuka in south eastern DRC. Since 2007 when it was founded, it has grown into a fully-fledged ecosystem that is transforming an entire community in the DRC from the ground up. Its collaboration with Apple provides solar panels and access to renewable energy at the Malaika School, as well as sessions on coding, photography, filmmaking, and design. Malaika school provides free, accredited primary and secondary education to 430 girls, ranging from STEM and coding to art, music, theater, and sports. The Malaika Community Center offers free literacy and vocational education, health classes, and sports programming to 6,000 people in the Congo. There is provision of clean water and sanitation. The building and maintenance of over 30 wells provides a consistent source of safe, clean drinking water to over 36,000 people each year. Malaika’s Technical Program trains young women and men ages 18-35 in mechanical and electrical skills. Upon completion of the respective programs, which last 9 and 12 months, students will be certified at a nationally-recognized level to pursue high-demand, local jobs. Malaika has recently expanded its offering with the construction of two new buildings for even more technical classes including welding, plumbing and carpentry – plus workshops for art and advanced IT classes.
Malaika has taken Noella to meet and work with people she never dreamt she would ever meet. From Bill President Clinton,(Clinton Global initiative 2015) King Charles, Princess Caroline of Hanover, working with Hollywood star Eve, meeting with Forest Whitaker, Alexandra Palt, Nelson Mandela's grandson- Ndaba Mandela,Hollywood actress Kerry Washington, President of FIFA Giovanni Vincenzo Infantino, the wife of King Charles - Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall, Model Naomi Campbell, Will.i.am, Cherrie Blair (spouse of former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Tony Blair) ....the list just continues to grow.
Malaika’s work has been recognized internationally. In 2023 Malaika was awarded the Peace Through Sport Initiative of the Year at the Peace and Sport Awards. Malaika teacher Therese Mabaka was selected as one of the top 50 finalists for the Global Teacher Prize 2023, presented by the Varkey Foundation and UNESCO. Other awards include: World Literacy Award (2021), Maya Amerja Sustainability Award (2018), House of Mandela Award (2018).
malaika.org
MSNBC President, Rashida Jones who was the First Black Woman to lead a major cable news network, is stepping down after four years. Jones said she was leaving to “pursue new opportunities.'
Rashida Jones was born in Pennsylvania, but her family later moved to Virginia where she attended high school. Her love and flair for journalism started at a young age. She was the Editor of the Student Newspaper in high school. When she graduated, she attended Hampton University, where she majored in Broadcast Journalism.
While she was still a senior in college, Jones worked as a Morning Show producer at WTKR in Norfolk, Virginia. She graduated with a Bachelors of Arts Degree in 2002.
A few years later, she moved to The Weather Channel, as a weekend producer, and became Director of Live programming in 2009. She also worked as News Director, at WIS-TV in Columbia, South Carolina. Jones would later move to New York as an Executive Producer for Daytime Shows at MSNBC, and became the Managing Editor at MSNBC and Senior Vice President of specials for NBC News and MSNBC.
On February 1, 2021, Jones succeeded Phil Griffin as the President of MSNBC and the First Black Woman to be the President of a major network.
On January 14, 2025, she resigned from her position at MSNBC.
We wish her the very best in her new pursuit.
"Such a beautiful and incredible work you’re doing to amplify positive representation. I’m honored to contribute to this mission".
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@i.am.royalti
"I love The Bronze Page Tribe!! I’m thrilled to be a part of this tribe! Bringing creative minds together! Connecting with bronze tribes all over the world!!! Thank you to the Tribe!!"
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@nadianeeubert_model
"I love your page, every piece of work is absolutely beautiful and y'all have kept it classy. Outstanding"
Instagram: @nething4celinas
'' You are doing a great job showcasing the beauty of diversity by sharing the talents of many women of different backgrounds and ethnicities...Thank you!'
Instagram: @mombieapocalips
''Here is to growth, gratitude and the incredible people who make it all possible: Cheers to an even brighter future together.''
Instagram: @itsmarionreber
"Well done & congratulations BronzePage. You are glowing & growing! Reaching new heights and are truly an inspiration.''
Instagram:
madelaine_snyman
It's wonderful!. We need this to keep recognizing women of color whose bronze skin tells a story of sun-kissed strength, resilience, and beauty — a radiant reminder that every shade of the earth is a masterpiece in its own right.''
Instagram:
@lisalumthemodel
"Absolutely stunning, I love how you showcase beauty.
It's a glamorous array of gorgeous diversity.
BronzePage, you are the true beauty.''
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@therealmeekamonroe
THIS IS AFRICA:
HER PULSE! HER RYTHMN! HER PEOPLE!
BronzePage was created to rebuff & refute the wrong narrative that Africa is nothing but safaris, wars & famine. How unfortunate. Africa is beautiful & Africans are very progressive, smart, creative & innovative. This is Africa like you have never seen before. Welcome to a Collection of Astonishment!!!