Mar 23 - Pretoria

She has always been a go-getter. Even when she’d given birth
to her now 20-something-year-old daughter, Milla, three weeks
before her LLB final year exam, Johanni Steenkamp remained focused on
her goals, determined to achieve big things.
“I always knew I wanted to fight for justice. And so, I got the
qualification, kicked off my career in law, and studied some more.
I was just so persistent in wanting to prove that I belong, I didn’t
allow anything to stand in my way. There was a time in my life
when I did my articles during the day and attended law school
in the evening, all while raising a baby. And let me tell you, it’s
not for the faint-hearted.”
Later on, Johanni would try her hand at financial management,
business consulting, representing a telecommunications industry and running
various TV ad campaigns. And, needless to say, she thrived in each and every field.
Talk about a powerhouse woman! Although the fruits of her labour were sweet, it
all came crashing down about two decades in.
“I experienced severe burnout. And it’s as if something just clicked. When
you reach a certain point in your life, you don’t want to chase that next big
achievement, promotion or money. You just want to make a difference. So, I
decided that I would use the second half of my life to give back, and pursue some
of my other passions. It was a huge turning point for me.
“Since then, my view on life changed drastically, in a good way. I became involved
with various charities, as well as Girls’ School Pretoria. Got qualified in image
consulting and started my own business, YouHoney Image, and even opened
Pageant Closet, in an attempt to make styling, pageant wardrobe planning and
outfit hire affordable and accessible for all girls and women.”
Today she finds fulfilment in inspiring and motivating young girls, pre-teens, tweens
and teens to become the best version of themselves. Teaching them everything a
young girl should know. How to walk, talk, take care, love and embrace themselves
just as they are. Johanni also has a special place in her heart for underprivileged
girls, and will always try to make Girls’ School accessible for them too.
“A woman should always leave beauty behind, and that’s what we hope to teach
our girls. Our aim is to invest in these girls for them to grow into the strong,
powerful and confident women they are destined to become. In the same breath I
want to empower women through Pageant Closet and my coaching services.”
Since Johanni has always been interested in beautifying others, she now devotes
herself to doing just that, but from the inside out. Apart from renting out exquisite
gowns and outfits, this passionate image consultant takes pride in getting to know
her clients, listening to their stories and perhaps even reigniting that flame from
within. She’s all about empowering women, and reminding them of everything
they’re capable of.
She also continues to spread her motto, ‘Now that I know better, I do better’, across
various platforms in hopes of reminding women to go easy on themselves for the
bad choices they may have made in the past. Johanni firmly believes in learning
from your mistakes and making better choices for a better future.
When this determined entrepreneur isn’t encouraging young girls, conducting
colour and style personality tests, or helping you pick the outfit for your next big
function, she can be found, instrument in hand, on the church stage.
“I have always loved singing and playing the transverse flute, piano and some basic
drums. These are my God-given talents for which I am very grateful for. With that
being said, I am so very thankful for being able to live out so many of my passions
and having the opportunity to touch so many lives.”
One thing’s for sure – it’s never too late to follow your dreams. If you stay true to
yourself, believe in your capabilities and give it your all, you are bound to achieve
great things.
Details: Follow johanni_steenkamp, girlschool_pretoria and pageant_closet_za
on Insta.
SIX Closet essentials
this Winter
Johanni shares her top wardrobe
staples that will help you get
dressed easily, make your closet
versatile, and can be easily mixedand-matched
for that perfect
winter outfit.
• You can never go wrong with a
classy blazer or two. If you want to
make a statement, you’ll want to
choose something bright and bold.
• Black pants. Whether they’re highwaisted,
skinny or flared – it’s the
perfect foundation for any look. • Red
lipstick. It’s a makeup bag staple all
year round and the ultimate sign of
confidence when proudly swiped
on by its wearer. • Nude heels. This
timeless closet staple not only
gives the illusion of slimmer, longer
legs, but also pairs brilliantly with
everything in your closet. • Neutral
knits with a modern twist. Camel, grey,
and navy knitwear are great for tying
together any outfit. Small but mighty
details will also elevate these everyday
sweaters to a new level. • Let the LBD
be your go-to look for those special
occasions this winter. Remember to
switch up your accessories to make
each wear a little more unique.
FIVE Things to teach
your daughter
Having raised a daughter herself,
Johanni shares what she believes
any mother should instil in a
young woman.
• Tell and show your daughter that
she’s unconditionally loved and that
she shouldn’t accept anything less.
• If you are religious, instil in them
the discipline of going to church or
your place of worship. This provides a
kind of structure to help guide them
through their adult life. • Always leave
beauty behind. Teach them how to
love, be friendly and show empathy
wherever they go. • Teach them to
keep their word. In a world where it’s
so easy to break a promise, be the
one to keep it. • Constantly remind
them of their identity. Teach them
that they don’t need acceptance
from their peers. And teach them
through your actions – not just words
– as it always speaks louder.
March 23 Get It Magazine 11