Rolene Strauss

Rolene Strauss (born 22 April 1992) is a South African model and beauty queen who was crowned Miss South Africa 2014 and in December the same year won Miss World 2014 in London. She is the second South African woman to win the Miss World pageant, but the third to hold the title.

Rolene Strauss is a medical student at the University of the Free State. She was born in Volksrust, South Africa, to Theresa, a nurse, and Hennie Strauss, a doctor. In the year 2000, at 8 years of age, Rolene Strauss witnessed the crowning of Jo-Ann Strauss (no relation) as Miss SA. She dreamed of winning the title herself, and she did so in March 2014. On the 24th of July 2015, Rolene got enaged to D’Neil Strauss and the wedding is set to take place in February 2016.

Combining her two passions, she says: “Miss South Africa is all about giving. One of the greatest gifts anyone can receive is the gift of a healthy life. With my passion for giving, people and health, I will be able to contribute to one of the most important things any country desires: health for all.”

Rolene finds inspiration from Professor Jonathan Jansen, the rector of the University of the Free State. “He is not afraid to stand for what he believes in, he loves what he does and gives of himself to his students. I can testify that he wants the best for his students and supports them in all they do. We can all learn from Prof Jansen. Love what you do, stay humble and let the light shine on others.”