By Rivalani Pricilla Maluleke
Masilo Jacqueline Malatji, a 25-year-old Master of Arts in Media Studies candidate at the University of Limpopo, hails from Mankweng Unit D. She currently serves as Chairperson of Turf Royalty and wears many hats—model, event manager, philanthropist, M.C., voice-over artist, graphic designer, and intern at Energy FM SA. She also balances her entrepreneurial ventures, JayModels and JayGraphics.
Confidence and beauty, a powerful combination. Photo: Supplied
Reflecting on her journey, Jacqueline shares:
“My modelling journey began on September 23, 2014. I wanted to prove myself to the bullies who doubted me because of my energetic personality. Over the past 10 years, I’ve participated in more than 20 pageants and earned over 16 titles, including Miss University of Limpopo 2nd Princess in 2017/19. I’ve grown from being a technical head to Chairperson of Turf Royalty, where I now lead a team of over 30. This journey has made me stronger, teaching me how to be a sister, mentor, coach, and ‘Boss Lady.'”
In 2018, Jacqueline founded JayModels, a modelling agency where she coaches aspiring models. “Coaching has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey. It started with Turf Royalty, and today, I help models of all ages improve their skills and build their profiles.” Her leadership has transformed Turf Royalty into a growing brand that empowers young talent.
Jacqueline Malatji, Unapologetically herself, she shines bright in the world of modelling. Photo: Supplied
Balancing multiple roles has been no small feat. “Time management has been crucial. My days are long—I work from 8:00 to 16:00, rehearse with my team until 21:00, and study late into the night. But I’ve learned to make it work with the support of my family, close friends, and, most importantly, my mom, who always reminds me to stay grounded.”
Jacqueline’s entrepreneurial journey also began in 2018, when she expanded into graphic design and launched JayGraphics. Despite initial challenges, her work now sponsors local pageants, including Face of Polokwane and Turf Royalty. “It wasn’t easy managing two brands as a student, but I’ve learned how to balance my commitments, and today, I’m proud of the partnerships I’ve built.”
Looking forward, Jacqueline hopes to become Dr. M.J. Malatji and aspires to work with Miss SA and Miss Universe as a creative and stage manager. “I want to see Turf Royalty produce a Miss SA or Miss World. Giving back to my community is important to me, and I hope to do that through media, film, and television production.”
Her advice to her younger self:
“Be patient. Not everything will happen as you expect, but seize every opportunity. Don’t procrastinate, stand firm, and go for it. Be kind to yourself—success won’t come easy, but it will all make sense in the end.”
