Goosen, aka Lady G, is currently one of the 25 women competing for the title of Mrs South Africa 2020, but beyond the pageantry world she boasts a big passion for fashion, cars and radio, and hopes to one day add “TV presenter” to her already impressive resume.
The 37 year old, who resides in Cape Town with her husband Olaf and their two children, Kalum and Jay-dee, lives by the motto “just do it” which rings true for someone who is on the go 24/7. ‘
‘Chandre & Co’ and ‘La Fiora’ are two of her business ventures that occupy her time and efforts on a daily basis, but there’s more to her than meets the eye.
NOWinSA caught up with the hard-working ultimate boss-babe as she unpacks not only her dreams and hopes for the Mrs South Africa 2021 beauty pageant, but her passion to empower South African women to become economically self-sufficient.
CAPE TOWN
What do you love most about Cape Town?
Oh definitely Table Mountain, its incredible view and of course, the fashion trade in Cape Town.
What makes Cape Town “home”?
The fact that I can see Table Mountain, the beautiful beaches, as well as Robben Island all from the comfort of my own home. It truly is an incredible place to live as well as raise a family.
Where do you like to spend most of your time?
I love treating myself to a gorgeous spa day, or simply being on the beach with my children, but my mornings are definitely set aside for shopping at the V&A Waterfront.
Where is your favourite Sunday go-to lunch spot or somewhere you like going to hang out?
I absolutely love Life Day Spa Waterfront, or if I am with the family it’s our go-to favourite lunch spot like Life Grand Cafe which is the perfect combination of music, culture and food.
We hear you love outdoor activities, what activities do you enjoy and where do you like going?
Racing is one of them (I love fast cars!), and doing yoga on the beach.
STYLE
How would you define your style?
Very casual, with a modern twist. My go-to would be my Louis Vuitton sneakers and a ponytail, but with glam makeup. I consider myself to be a very modern person but very down to earth.
Best item of clothing you own?
My Freddy Jeans, I live in them. I love dressing them up in a classy way or simply keeping it casual – it works for both occasions.
Most cherished item you’ve ever received?
My heart necklace that I got as a Christmas gift from my husband after my father passed away. In this heart shaped necklace is a picture of me and my father.
Who is your style icon and why?
Definitely, without a doubt, Jennifer Lopez! She is modern and hip, and yet at the same time remains a “cool mom”. She always comes across as very down to earth and seems to have the same principles that I have. Wherever you see her, you see her children, a true homebody at heart which I love. She can pull off the most casual look, and then rock the red carpet in a million dollar gown.
Favourite clothing item you’ve recently bought?
Calvin Klein, without a doubt. The most beautiful black dress with a big white collar. This can pass as a smart dress or a casual look with sneakers.
CHANDRE
What is one thing about you that you wish more people knew about?
I am feisty but I am kind. I am humble but will not tolerate people walking over me.
In your opinion, what does it take to be a Mrs South Africa?
A strong woman! Someone who does not allow anything to deter her from reaching her goals and sets aside time to uplift the beautiful and strong women in South Africa. A woman that is consistent and graceful.
What is one goal you have set for yourself this year that you hope to achieve?
To have the opportunity to tell people my story and positively influence the women of South Africa.
If you weren’t a businesswoman, what profession would you like to go into?
I would love to have done mediation work in the courts of our justice system in South Africa and be able to create woman awareness campaigns in different areas for women so that they have the support they need and also, for them to be able to know that something like women support does exist. That, and of course a TV presenter is my dream job.
You own 3 businesses – what do you think your strongest entrepreneurial skill is and why?
I definitely think I have the skill of perseverance and self-discipline. Being an entrepreneur is not always easy… It’s about not taking no for an answer and your mind always has to be set on what you want and what’s good for your business.
Without the skill of self discipline it will be very tough to achieve your end goals, as many go through business thinking that life owes them something. I am a strong believer in “it’s all or nothing.”
MRS SOUTH AFRICA
What are 3 things every woman should always carry in her handbag?
Lipstick, yummy mints, and my favourite perfume from Fragrance Find.
What is your definition of being a true South African woman?
She is a fearless woman who is not afraid to stand up for herself and raise her voice for a good cause. She shares her and isn’t ashamed of who she is, where she comes from and what she stands for.
“I believe that speaking up is having dignity”
What was your main reason behind wanting to enter Mrs South Africa?
I entered this journey to be able to tell people my life story most of all to the women of South Africa. I entered this journey with the main goal of being able to, in some way, save lives and to serve the women and children in my country. To create more opportunities for them so that they have a chance and an opportunity to be what they want to be, and to use the voice they are born with to speak up for themselves and their needs as it is a voice that’s so valid and should be heard.
Women all over the world have this idea that they don’t “have a voice”, but they do have a voice they just need to find the inner-strength and courage to use it and it’s my duty to show them how it’s used and that you should not apologise for using that voice. I believe that speaking up is having dignity.
Describe the experience thus far in one word?
Overwhelming.
Should you win, what will be your main goal going forward?
To create women awareness campaigns all around South Africa and to promote South Africa as a whole, by merging with some of the strongest women in the world, and to create more opportunities for women to speak up but to also create business opportunities for them and my country.
Follow her journey on Instagram here.
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