Behind the beauty is a story of strength and self-discovery.
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ASHLEY Reyneke’s journey to the semi-finals of Mrs Curve South Africa 2025 is more than a personal triumph - it’s a testament to perseverance, rediscovery, and the courage to chase one’s dreams at any stage in life.
A woman who has met life’s challenges head-on, Ashley embodies resilience and the quiet strength that comes from reclaiming one’s voice.
Born in Kimberley, Ashley’s early life was marked by movement and instability. Her family relocated several times - first to Upington, then to Kleinmond - before eventually returning to Kimberley when she was in Grade 6. Raised by a single mother who juggled two jobs to support her children, Ashley grew up with financial hardship and emotional wounds, including the absence of her father.
Despite the obstacles, her childhood taught her valuable lessons: humility, determination, and the strength to rise above adversity.
“As a child, it felt like everyone was always looking down on us, especially in school,” she recalls. “That shaped me into a very soft-spoken, humble person - and that is something I now try to teach my children: never look down on anyone.”
Ashley’s passion for modelling ignited in Grade 4 while living in Kleinmond, where she had a brief opportunity to explore the industry. Although financial constraints forced her to step away, the dream never faded. The allure wasn’t just the glamour - it was the sense of empowerment and visibility that came with it.
“Seeing those women on stage, being recognised and heard, made me realise that’s something I’ve always wanted - to be seen, to be heard, and to know that I matter.”
Her early inspiration came from Tyra Banks on America’s Next Top Model. Today, she draws strength from women like Aldytha Da Silva, national director of Mrs Curve South Africa, and Burgette Yarlett, an NLP master coach - figures who have helped fuel her personal growth and self-belief.
For years, Ashley placed her children’s needs above her own, setting her own dreams aside. But something inside her yearned for more.
“After years of hardship and just living for my kids, I started searching for myself again,” she says. “I realised I’m a mother, yes- but I’m also my own person, a woman with hopes and dreams.”
When she saw an advert for Mrs Curve South Africa 2025, something stirred within her. Just three days before the deadline, she applied. A week later, she was on a plane to Durban for the casting workshop - an exhilarating experience that forced her to step far outside her comfort zone.
The moment she heard her name announced as a semi-finalist was life-changing. “It was one of my proudest moments,” she says. “I took that leap of faith, travelled far with so much uncertainty, and yet I stood there, realising - I did it. Taking that first step was empowering.”
This is what growth, grit, and grace look like.
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Like many women, Ashley has struggled with body image - especially after having children. The physical changes brought insecurity, but her journey in modelling has been transformative.
“I’ve always been insecure about myself,” she admits. “But over time, I’ve made peace with who I am. I found inner peace and accepted that I am enough - beautiful, even with stretch marks and a little extra weight.”
Overcoming societal expectations as a plus-size model hasn’t been easy, but Ashley has learned to silence the noise.
“All the outside opinions - I just let go of them. I’ve evolved. I no longer look down on myself. I feel confident wearing the clothes I love, and I take care of my body for what it is now.”
One of the most rewarding aspects of Ashley’s journey has been the bond she’s formed with fellow contestants.
“Meeting all these beautiful, strong women has been incredible. We all carry our own pain, but we’re here for a reason. Sometimes we feel so alone - but we’re not.”
The sense of sisterhood has been uplifting.
“Seeing the joy and happiness in everyone was amazing. The way these women support and uplift each other is truly inspiring.”
A powerhouse of beauty, courage, and sisterhood - congratulations to all the Mrs Curve South Africa 2025 semi-finalists who are redefining confidence and celebrating curves with pride.
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With the next stages of the competition ahead, Ashley is focused on mental and emotional growth.
“There’s a lot of preparation to be done, but for me, it’s more about growing past my fears. I want to inspire others and remind them that it’s never too late to reclaim your dreams.”
Her message is clear and powerful: “It’s never too late to take control of your life, never too late to take back your voice. No matter how scared you are - go after your dreams. Never stop believing in yourself, even when others doubt you.”
Beyond modelling, Ashley is determined to build a successful business and create a stable future for herself and her children. Balancing her personal life, work, and modelling has been challenging - but family remains her priority.
“Weekends are my time with my children. Being self-employed gives me the flexibility to take time off when needed.”
For aspiring models - especially in the plus-size industry - her advice is both realistic and encouraging: “Modelling isn’t just about getting on stage. It takes effort behind the scenes too. If it calls to you, do it. Put in the time and never give up.”
If Ashley is crowned Mrs Curve South Africa 2025, she hopes to use the platform to inspire others to believe in themselves and pursue their purpose.
“I want to show that if you believe in yourself and take action, you can achieve anything.”
Looking ahead, Ashley sees herself as stronger and more confident than ever. “I want to be remembered as someone who grew into her full potential,” she says. “I want to leave a legacy that shows how I grew to my full potential and developed confidence and courage.”
To her supporters, she offers sincere gratitude: “Thank you to everyone who has supported and encouraged me. Your belief in me gave me the little push I needed to take this leap of faith.”
Ashley Reyneke is not just walking a runway - she’s paving a path for others to follow. With determination and heart, she’s showing women everywhere that the journey to self-love and empowerment is always worth it.
She’s not just chasing dreams - she’s living them
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