She’s a 23-year-old entrepreneur, model and philanthropist, hoping to make the lives of the youth in South Africa, just a little better, by offering them an opportunity to gain one of life’s most basic skills through her children’s educational book, Learn to Read, Learn to Lead”.

Sasha-Lee is not only an author who aims to change the lives of many… her passions go beyond education as she is also the Director of Ace Models International West Rand.

Born and raised in Johannesburg, Sasha-Lee Taylor completed her degree in Social Sciences, majoring in Marketing and Psychology at Monash University. She has become one of SA’s loved celebrity personalities for quite a few special reasons. We got the opportunity to sit down with the brunette beauty and get some inside insight into the life of Sasha-Lee Taylor.

What is one goal you hope to achieve this year? 

I have two main goals which are my main priority at the moment. Firstly, the one is to get the second book of “Learn to Read, Learn to Lead” into the bookstores alongside the first book. Obviously lockdown put a little bit of a spanner in the works but we are pushing on. Secondly, I want to focus on growing and expanding ACE Models West Rand, as we are always looking for fresh new faces and love expanding our modeling family.

 

How do you maintain healthy relationships with your friends, family and partner with such an in-demand and busy schedule?

I’m very fortunate to have friends and family that are very understanding and also very helpful, so it’s not too difficult to maintain those relationships. I like to involve them in a lot of what I do as well, so I do get to be around them often which helps us be together.

 

What do you want to be remembered for in the modelling/entertainment industry one day?

I want to be remembered for making a difference and inspiring others – this actually goes for all aspects of my life. A big part of doing what I do and being in the modeling/entertainment industry is to inspire young girls and boys to dream big and never be afraid of chasing their dreams, as I believe they can achieve anything they set their minds too.

 

Besides modelling, what other hobbies do you enjoy?

I love nature and outdoors – hiking, outdoor sports is something I really enjoy. A good outdoor adventure is something I will never say no to. I also enjoy going to the driving range and working on my golf swing.

 

Who is one person that you look up to and draw inspiration from, and why?

My younger sister will always be my biggest inspiration. She has had to overcome many challenges and despite everything she’s gone through she keeps pushing on – a true example of a resilient young lady which is a quality I really admire.

 

Most inspirational moment, something that impacted you whilst giving back?

I have two moments that will stay with me forever… I have always been involved in giving back and helping charity, but when I was about 13 I had my first visit to an orphanage to donate some clothes and bring the children a few pizza’s. The way in which those children’s eyes lit up when they saw the things they were about to receive truly touched my heart and it was then that I realized how important giving back truly is. The second moment was when I was invited by the Nelson Mandela Childrens Fund to speak in Parliament about my ‘Learn to Read, Learn to Lead’ project. This was an incredibly eye-opening experience for me which I will always be grateful for.

 

Who has played an important part in your career thus far and why?

It’s very hard for me to name only one person because I have met and worked with so many incredibly inspiring people along my journey from my family and friend,s to my sponsors, to my mentors, they have all played such an important role in my life I’m grateful for everyone that I’ve crossed paths with.

 

Knowing what you know now, what advice would you have given to yourself 5 years ago?

I would tell myself to believe in me and trust the journey. I know now more than ever how important believing in yourself is and if you can get that right it’s the first step towards achieving your goals.

 

How do you remain humble and grounded in an industry that is so publicised?

My friends and family help me with this, I don’t believe I’m better than anyone else as we all have our own unique qualities to offer. I always worked very hard to get something I wanted and I think that’s also contributed towards remaining grounded.

 

What don’t people know about you?

I am a huge animal lover and always grew up having loads of pets!

 

Quick Facts:

What is your favourite cheat meal or snack:

Full portion of Nachos from Spur is my absolute favorite!

My shoe size is a:

6

My secret talent is:

My secret talent is still hidden and I’m waiting to find it (LOL)

Favourite lifestyle brand:

I’m obsessed with Boost Gymwear at the moment.

If I were to be an animal I would be a:

I would be a bear

Fave book of all time:

Rising Strong from Brene Brown

Song from my youth that I can’t help but bust a move to is:

I got a feeling from the Black Eyed Peas