An iconic skincare brand across the world for over 100 years, NIVEA has announced its first brand ambassador in Africa, Thando Thabethe. The 5FM DJ, TV presenter and actress has built a brand for herself and was the perfect fit for Beiersdorf South Africa. Our beauty writer, Keletso Modisakeng, talks to her about her new deal.
Congratulations on being appointed NIVEA’s brand ambassadress in SA. How do you feel about this?
I grew up using NIVEA in my family. It has been, and still is the brand of choice for my entire family. To be chosen to represent it is truly a great honour and I cannot begin to describe my excitement about this relationship. I am proud to represent NIVEA‘s vision to support women and bring out their natural, organic beauty in a way that is true to every individual.
What does NIVEA as a brand mean to you personally?
NIVEA is a brand that my grandmother used (the little blue NIVEA Creme tin) and my mother after that. I remember playing in the dirty streets of Soweto as a young girl and going home all ashy and brown. I would get a scolding from my mom, followed by a trip to the bathtub, and afterwards the use of NIVEA on me. This became symbolic of her love and care for me.
Do you feel like there is more pressure on you to look your best because you are a celebrity and people recognise you all the time?
At times I do, but people can easily see through false impressions or looks, so I try to just be real and natural.
What makes you feel your most beautiful?
My best kept secret is to be naturally and organically beautiful, which makes me feel confident and happy about myself. I can then only hope that this translates to the world. For me personally, I feel my most beautiful when I have healthy skin. Every girl likes to feel beautiful, and, with or without make-up, healthy skin adds to that feeling.
What things can have an effect on your skin?
I have hormonal breakouts every now and then, and my skin dries up in the winter. The effects of having TV makeup on my face for prolonged periods of time really affect my skin negatively, so it’s even more important that I take really good care of it.
What do you do to “de-stress”?
Stress also affects my skin – I suffer from mild breakouts in stressful times. To de-stress, I am obsessed with the spa. So I usually book myself in for a spa-day and pamper mind, body, skin and soul at the same time. In fact, I make sure that I clear my diary at least one day a month to completely relax and make sure that my body and skin look and feel good.
Do you have a healthy diet and what diet tips would you give to other women?
I have a healthy diet and I actually enjoy water. I can see the effects on my skin when I slack on water intake. I love my avocados and my favourite meal is a good alfredo!
I would recommend to other women to learn to eat well, know what‘s good and not good for you. Also, it‘s not only about what you eat, but how much – take care to watch the portion sizes! It’s a mistake many women make.
Do you have any beauty tips and advice for other women who aspire to be just like you?
Love yourself and the skin that you are in everything else will fall into place.
How do you prepare for red carpet evenings?
I make sure to plan my outfit, accessories and make-up long in advance. Luckily I have a team that helps me put my look together. It’s up to me, though, to make sure that my body is in good shape, my skin is healthy and remind myself that there‘s no better place to be than in my own skin. Once I am completely comfortable at home with myself, the confidence naturally exudes.
