Joanna's African adventure

Blackpool beauty queen Joanna Johnson has done the resort proud again '“ this time placing in the top nine in an international pageant.
Joanna Johnson (centre), with Louise (left), representing Africa and (right) Hazel, from the Phillippines at a cheetah park, visiting the cheetahs and wild catsJoanna Johnson (centre), with Louise (left), representing Africa and (right) Hazel, from the Phillippines at a cheetah park, visiting the cheetahs and wild cats
Joanna Johnson (centre), with Louise (left), representing Africa and (right) Hazel, from the Phillippines at a cheetah park, visiting the cheetahs and wild cats

Joanna, 22, of Norbreck, made it through to the grand final of the World Supermodel competition, which took place in Bloemfontein, in South Africa.

The former Miss Blackpool had scooped the title of World Supermodel UK last year to get through to the final, and faced stiff competition from girls from across the globe.

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Joanna, who works as a hairdresser at Ndulge Hair and Beauty, in Bispham, said it was truly an experience of a lifetime.

She said: “We had a bridal fashion show, photoshoots and appearances in the local area, including going to the local rugby club and meeting the players.

“We went to the cheetah park and saw the animals, as well as going on a safari, where we got up close to rhinos, giraffes, warthogs and zebras.

“The final took place at the PACOFS Theatre in Bloemfontein, the Emoya Estate Hotel and Spa was our host venue and it was incredible – waking up to animals on your doorstep was a surreal experience.

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“It was hard work, but so much fun – it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience I am truly grateful to have been part of.

“And I’m extremely proud to say I made the top nine in an international competition.

“I really enjoyed meeting all the girls from different parts of the world and making new friends for life – some of us are arranging to meet up in the future.

“I honestly couldn’t pick out one thing I enjoyed the most out of the week.

“Every day, we did something new and exciting.

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“One of the things which did really stand out was when we had a photoshoot with the cheetahs and one of them was walking around my legs, it was amazing to be that close to the animals.

“I would get up early in the mornings, and go for runs where you would see the giraffes and zebras standing watching you.”

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