It was a freezing, rainy day, and most definitely not the type of weather anyone imagines having on their matric farewell. But not even the gloomy weather could dampen Dineo Modungwa's spirit, as she stepped on stage to showcase her custom-made dress and wow the crowd with her dazzling smile.
Dineo was chosen as the winner of The Go-To Guy's matric farewell competition, where she won a custom-made dress designed and made by Du Preez by Design, and a makeover provided by Revivified Beauty Salon. We caught up with her after the excitement settled down.
Tell us about your overall experience at the matric farewell. What was the most memorable moment for you?
My overall experience at the matric farewell was truly unforgettable. The most memorable moment for me was when I stepped onto the stage. Seeing everyone's reactions to my dress and make-up was incredible. It was the first time I felt such a rush of confidence and pride. The applause and compliments made me feel like a star, and it was a moment I will cherish forever.
Your dress was custom-made by du Preez by Design. Can you describe how you felt wearing it and what inspired the design?
Wearing the custom-made dress was an enchanting experience. I felt deeply connected to my love for nature, which was the inspiration behind the design. I wanted my dress to embody elements of nature, and flowers seemed like the perfect idea to bring that vision to life.
The dress features beautiful floral accents and embellishments that resemble dewdrops, adding a touch of natural elegance. The blue color of the dress reminds me of clear skies and calm waters, further enhancing the nature-inspired theme.
Wearing this dress made me feel like I was wrapped in the beauty of the natural world. It was a perfect blend of elegance and whimsy, making me feel both unique and confident. The details and thoughtful design truly captured my vision and made the night even more special.
What was it like working with du Preez by Design on your dream dress?
Working with the team from du Preez by Design was an incredibly positive experience. They consistently sought my opinions and valued my input throughout the entire process. I was encouraged to share any suggestions or ideas I had, which made me feel truly involved in creating my dream dress. Their openness and collaborative approach ensured that the final design was a perfect reflection of my vision. It was a wonderful experience, and I felt supported and heard every step of the way.
Revivified Beauty Salon did your make-up for the night. How did you feel about the look they created for you?
Working with Revivified Beauty Salon was an incredible experience from start to finish. The trial make-up session was fantastic; they took the time to understand my preferences and ensured that every detail was perfect. I felt very comfortable and confident during the trial, knowing that I was in capable hands.
On the night of the matric farewell, I was absolutely thrilled with my final look. The make-up was flawless and complemented my dress beautifully. They did an outstanding job, enhancing my natural features and making me feel glamorous. I received so many compliments throughout the evening.
Additionally, the experience of getting my nails done was delightful. The team at Revivified Beauty Salon made it a relaxing and enjoyable process, adding the perfect finishing touch to my overall look. Their professionalism and skill truly made the night special for me.
Did the winning package enhance your overall matric farewell experience?
Absolutely, the winning package significantly enhanced my overall matric farewell experience. The custom-made dress made me feel unique and special, perfectly reflecting my love for nature with its beautiful floral details. The professional make-up complemented the dress wonderfully, boosting my confidence and making me feel glamorous. Together, they transformed the night into an unforgettable experience, allowing me to fully enjoy and cherish every moment.
How did your friends and family react when they saw you all dressed up for the night?
My family and friends were absolutely captivated when they saw me all dressed up for the night. They all thought I looked stunning, which made me feel really special.
How will you remember your matric farewell journey in years to come?
This journey will always hold a special place in my heart. I'll fondly recount this amazing experience and the incredible way everything came together, even when it seemed impossible. It's a testament to how great God is for blessing me with this opportunity. I'll cherish these memories and share them with others for years to come.
Do you feel that winning this competition made your matric farewell more special?
Winning this competition made my matric farewell incredibly special in so many ways. I have always struggled with low self-esteem and preferred to stay out of the spotlight. However, that night, when I stepped onto the stage in my beautiful dress and flawless make-up, I felt an overwhelming sense of confidence. For the first time, I had no doubts about my beauty. I walked with my head held high, and even though I used to dislike my smile, I received so many compliments about how beautiful it was. This experience was a huge confidence booster for me. It was a transformative moment that made me feel truly special and appreciated. The competition not only gave me a stunning look for the night but also helped me see myself in a new, positive light.
Would you recommend du Preez by Design and Revivified Beauty Salon to others?
I would highly recommend these establishments to anyone preparing for their matric farewell or any special event. They made my preparation process incredibly smooth and stress-free. Their professionalism and attention to detail ensured everything was perfect. Plus, their support allowed me to fully enjoy the experience without any worries. They truly helped make my night unforgettable, and I can confidently say you'll never leave unsatisfied from there.
What’s next for you after matric? Any exciting plans for the future?
After this unforgettable matric farewell experience, I am excited to pursue my studies in psychology. My goal is to become a social worker, where I can help others who are facing hardships. Winning the free makeover has brought me immense joy during a challenging time, and it has inspired me to give back. I want to create opportunities for other children to experience the same joy and support that I did. This journey has shown me the power of kindness and generosity, and I am eager to make a positive impact on the lives of others through my future career.
We wish you all the best for your future, Dineo! May this beautiful, unforgettable evening pave the way for an even more beautiful future.
Johané van Dyk - Potchefstroom