By Khahliso Khama
MASERU — Local beauty queen Lineo Thaanyane has established her own modelling agency which she says has already signed up 30 aspiring models.
The agency, Exelarate, is based in Maseru and falls under the aegis of the former Miss PC’s new advertising and promotions company.
Thaanyane, 27, told the Weekender she thought of setting up the agency after realising modelling talent in the country was going to waste.
“I realised that most girls walk along the streets with their talent unnoticed and become victims of crime, teenage pregnancy and HIV and Aids,” she said.
“Establishing Exelarate was an option to tackle social issues affecting young girls.”
“I also wanted to avail opportunities for aspiring models in Lesotho,” she added.
Thaanyane said although her agency was open to all Basotho she was particular about certain attributes.
“We are very conscious about a model’s educational background, age, behaviour and experience in the industry,” she said.
“Our age range lies between 18 and 24 years with at least a high school leaving certificate.”
She said they will also equip the models with entrepreneurial skills.
“I want to mobilise opportunities which will see young women engage in the corporate world and in projects that will give back to the community,” Thaanyane said.
“There are numerous opportunities in this industry. All the girls need is the right direction and that’s what I want to do – give them direction.”
Thaanyane was crowned Miss PC in 2006 and Miss Manonyane in 1998.
