Amy inspires as LEAP Patron
Former Miss South Africa and Director of Dial a Teacher, Amy Kleinhans-Curd became LEAP’s patron in March after visiting LEAP schools in Johannesburg and feeling a strong connection with LEAP’s work.
The daughter of a headmaster and a qualified teacher herself, Amy is passionate about child-centred education in South Africa, saying:
“Education is rocket fuel for our opportunities. Someone once said to me: don’t tell me the world’s my oyster when there are footprints on the moon!”
Amy is a role model for South African women, balancing several successful business pursuits, life with her husband and four children as well as a commitment to children and young people’s organisations such as LEAP.
She is also an activist and believer in social justice. After being crowned Miss South Africa in 1992, Amy refused to carry the old South African flag in the Miss World competition, carrying a simple white flag as a symbol of hope and peace instead. Her principled stance caused a storm of protest but also respect and admiration. Amy recalls in a February 2012 article in Longevity magazine: “The next morning I was bombarded by irate South Africans swearing at me. Then, I received a phone call; a quiet, measured voice spoke on the line… It was Nelson Mandela. He thanked me and told me I had much support.”
Amy is hoping to provide career and leadership guidance for young women in LEAP schools in addition to bringing her considerable charm and star power to LEAP events, like the LEAP Golf Day held at Dainfern Country Club (where Amy is pictured talking to LEAP students above).
Amy’s example serves as an inspiration, particularly to the young women of LEAP. The LEAP learning community is delighted to have her on-board.
