Anezka Viljoen was recently interviewed by TheCelebrity.Online Magazine and below is the Q&A session we had with Anezka.
Anezka Viljoen As Cover Story Interview – July 2025 Magazine Edition
How do you introduce yourself?
Hi, I’m Anezka Viljoen — a professionally trained dancer and aspiring model from South Africa. With a strong foundation in ballet, modern, jazz, and contemporary dance, I’ve developed versatility across multiple styles. I’m also an aerialist, blending strength and artistry in new ways. Currently, I’m launching my modeling career and look forward to the exciting opportunities ahead. I’m graduating this year with my teaching degrees and ISTD qualifications, ready to step into the professional world with a bang! I’m thrilled to share my journey so far — and I hope you’ll join me as I continue to grow and chase new creative horizons.
Struggle – What hardships have you gone through in life?
I’m only 21, but I’ve faced my fair share of challenges. My parents separated when I was young, and that has shaped my relationships with male figures to this day. Still, I’m incredibly grateful for my mom and a few key father figures who helped guide me — without them, I might not be the person I am today. And I genuinely like the person I’ve become. I also live with anxiety, which makes socializing a challenge. That’s why I gravitate toward dancing and acting — they allow me to step into someone else’s story, to shed my own skin for a while and truly escape. But the life of a dancer isn’t easy. Injuries come with the territory: I’ve torn two major muscles, damaged my knees, and fractured multiple bones in my feet — and I kept dancing through most of it. I even managed to give myself a concussion with my car boot (classic). These setbacks kept me out of training and performing for weeks or even months at a time. Catching up physically and mentally was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, but I pushed through. Now, I’m stronger — and ready to shine. Like many dancers, I’ve also struggled with body dysmorphia. The pressure to conform to rigid standards around weight, height, and diet can be brutal, especially when it’s coming from choreographers or coaches. But those experiences taught me resilience, self-worth, and one of the biggest lessons of my life so far: Take what people say with a pinch of salt.
What do people usually not know about you?
I’m a proud bookworm — I devour just about any book that lands in front of me. Recently, I’ve become part of the ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) community, which allows me to read books before they’re published and help authors build awareness. I also work as a beta reader, where I read early drafts and provide feedback on pacing, structure, and character development. It’s been such a rewarding experience, and I’m deeply grateful to the authors who’ve trusted me with their work. Another thing not many people know about me: I dream of one day retiring on the coast of Ireland, listening to the waves crash while reading a good book — my kind of peace. I also have a knack for languages. With just a few months of study, I can usually hold a basic conversation, and I love diving into new cultures through their words.
What sets you apart from others?
One of my greatest strengths is my sheer stubbornness. If someone tells me there’s only a 1-in-10 chance of achieving something, I’ll work tirelessly to become that one. If I see another artist with the same qualifications as me, I won’t sit still — I’ll go out, level up, and add new skills to my repertoire. The industry I’m in is cutthroat. It will chew you up and spit you out if you don’t have thick skin and relentless drive. When people said my CV was too basic — just a list of dance styles — I learned aerial arts. When they said dancing wasn’t all that mattered, I got scouted by a modeling agency. And when I thought, what if there are dry seasons?, I made sure I was also a qualified teacher. I’m always thinking ahead. I know I’ll succeed — because I don’t give up. As long as I tune out the anxiety and doubt and listen to the fire in my own head, I’ll keep pushing forward. One way or another, I’ll make it.
What are your upcoming major events?
My upcoming events include my final exams—my last ones ever (eek!)—and an exciting dance showcase in four parts (title to be announced). I’ll also be walking the runway as a model at IATS (The International Arts Talent Showcase). After that, who knows what adventures await? I’ve applied for multiple jobs around the world and have already heard back from a few promising opportunities. Hopefully, 2026 will be a year filled with exciting new experiences and plenty of travel.
What expert advice would you like to give?
Never give up — in anything. Whether it’s life, love, or your career, keep pushing forward. Send that email, apply for that job, and if you don’t hear back, don’t be discouraged.
Your social media handles and website links?
@a.nessie. > https://www.instagram.com/a.nessie./
@anezka.viljoen >https://www.instagram.com/anezka.viljoen/
@Anezka Viljoen >https://www.facebook.com/anezka.viljoen
Jose R. Harwood is a the author and editor of TheCelebrity.Online and expert in Entertainment Industry working with TheCelebrity.Online Magazine – You can reach R. Harwood via Contact page! – Read more on our About Us page.
