OAKLEY WOMAN NEO TELLS US ABOUT “MAKING YOUR DREAMS A REALITY” AND TEN THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT HER!

Out of the heart of Soweto, entrepreneur, Oakley ambassador and one of the faces for the 2014 Woolworths Winter campaign, Neo Leoka believes in taking leaps in life that teach you the greatest lessons. In February this year she received a call that changed her life; being chosen as one of the faces for the 2014 Woolworths Winter campaign. “I still can’t believe it” said Neo.

She reflects the true heart of a South African woman. As a qualified fashion designer with a BTECH from the Tshwane University, she draws inspiration for her line of clothes from the continent, its cities and citizens. Her designs mirror her surroundings and the daily elements of life from going shopping at markets to simply creating a delicious home-made meal.

With role models like Oprah Winfrey and Michelle Obama this young woman is running in the direction of great things. Neo is a fervent young lady who lives a healthy active lifestyle. She resonates with a brand like Oakley from an upbringing that allowed her the privilege of identifying quality over quantity. She recently received an Oakley prescription sunglass ‘News Flash’ that not only provides the benefits of Oakley technology but at the same time keeps her looking on trend. Neo is also a big fan of the Oakley Frogskin collection, she rocks her Neon Frogskins when out and about at the beach or at festivals. “The Oakley brand is perfect for me. I can wear the same pair of sunglasses throughout the day, even for my afternoon runs. There is a seamless blend of style and functionality that screams me.” said Neo.

Ten Things you don’t know about Neo…

Tell us who Neo Leoka is?

I’m a Sowetan with my heart in Johannesburg amid some memories and dreams all over the rest of the world. I’m a qualified Fashion designer, a full time model and newly in the 30-something circle of life and loving it!

What are your passions and goals in life?I am passionate about life, there’s more to life than the internet and having a party. I’m deeply fanatical about staying fit and healthy, inside and out. One of my many goals is to get my brand into stores, continue my studies, host a few fashion shows and travel.

How do you bring about balance in your days?Staying fit, travelling and cooking

What motivates you?The fact that I get to live another day and do all the things I love!

Where do you see yourself in the future?I see myself becoming a home owner, writing a few books and picking vegetables from my very own garden to create innovative dishes.

What do you believe in as a young female entrepreneur?I believe that the best lessons you can ever learn are not in written text, most of them are learnt when you take a leap and attain it. Sometimes we need a tough skin and an even stronger personality to handle the challenges that help us to grow.

What brands best describe you and your personality?Oakley, Woolworths, Play Play apparel and Converse

Why Oakley resonates with you as a person?I was very privileged to come from a background where I was taught about the quality of life. If it was not of a good quality it was not worth investing in. Oakley boasts high quality lenses, durability and comfort ability which is a no brainer for me. I have a prescription sunglass ‘News Flash’ that I can’t go without. They have the modern slight cat-eye shape that keeps me looking on trend. I have very sensitive eyes and with the Oakley HDPolarized lenses I find that I don’t squint as often as I use to and it reduces 100% of glare from any flat surfaces so it’s perfect to wear when I’m driving.

I’m also a huge fan of the Oakley Frogskins; they give me that cool rock star look when I’m out at festivals and on the beach. I don’t go anywhere without my prescription frames that give me the security to drive home safely without any distortion of my vision. When I’m at the gym, my Oakley training gear takes me through my session while feeling cool, comfortable and looking fine!

Have there been any changes to your life after the Woolworths campaign and the feature on Top Billing?I have more followers on my Social media platforms and I have received quite a few business offers.

From your experiences and challenges, what advice would you give to young ladies of South Africa?Always take time to dream, it is your life’s map. Don’t be afraid to let your dreams change, try to obtain a qualification and strive for independence.

More about Neo Leoka HU here UH, follow her on Twitter HU here UH and on Instagram HU here U.