Lawrence has come far since his debut as a presenter on Soweto TV. Now the handsome lad will be gracing us on e.tv’s Powerball, sharing the weekly winning numbers alongside Katlego Danke.
How did you get the gig?
I was given a call to come for a screen test. I did two and an interview, and nailed the part.
What difference do you think you will make on the show?
I’m not predictable and that is what you will enjoy about my presenting skills. I am also youthful and have the energy, flair and excitement that is needed for the show.
What does it really take to be a television presenter?
It needs to come naturally; you also need to be genuinely interested in the job because if you aren’t, it will show. If you are into it, it will be obvious in the questions you ask or how you talk about the topics at hand. You need to be someone who is aware of what and who is around, be it the person you’re interviewing or the event you are covering; study your subject matter.
How do you prepare and make sure you do well in your role as a presenter?
I didn’t study anything to do with presenting; so to do well, I used to find a script or make up one and pretend there were cameras in my room while I perfected the craft. Practice makes perfect, that is my motto.
Apart from presenting what else keeps you busy?
I have a company called BMI Holdings. I am always interested in investing money in my business and spend a lot of time finding appealing businesses to invest in. 
What motivation quotes or methods keep you going and could possibly help others?
People often use their poverty and circumstances as defence mechanisms and the reason for not progressing. I have learnt that successful people don’t make excuses; they just act. So, find what you are good at and make the best out of it. Invest in yourself and better your life, before helping others.
Did your upbringing have any influence on what you are now and what you do?
Yes. I am the youngest of three siblings, with an older brother and sister. Although I am the last born, my parents made sure not to spoil me. My father always wanted me to make something great of myself, so he taught me to be independent. He also influenced my taste in jazz music and may be the reason why my mother thinks I am an old soul.
When you are not investing in your business or presenting, what are you up to?
I spend a lot of time with family and friends. I also love going to the gym.
As a young and single guy, what do you look for in a girl?
I like a girl who has end goals. I want a partner that can mentally stimulate me because I tend to spend a lot of time thinking. She has to be about the hustle and understand herself; someone down to earth, versatile and classy, yet able to hang out in the hood with me.
What has been the worst date you have ever been to?
My ex-girlfriend and I went on a date and lost track of time, and ended up missing the last taxi home. She called one of her guy friend’s to pick us up. After dropping me off, the two of them hooked up and I only found out about this the next day at a friend’s braai.
What would you say is the best place for a date?
I want to take my date to a place I know she’d love, which means I would have to know her well before taking her to our perfect date.
What is the one thing people don’t know about Lawrence?
Not everyone knows that I was quite the geek in high school, but hung out with the popular guys (laughs). I was the captain of the rugby team as well as a prefect. But, the biggest thing people don’t know about me is that I am very shy; I keep a lot to myself, which can make me appear to be a closed off person.
