As a fitness trainer, wellness coach, and nutritional consultant, Savannah Zaki goes beyond the superficial and empowers others to embrace holistic well-being. In her modelling career, she breaks stereotypes and serves as an inspiration for women to recognise their own values and embrace their uniqueness.
One thing is certain, Meyersdal’s Savannah fearlessly takes on any challenges that come her way. She welcomes a world full of possibilities and sees it as an open invitation for growth and exploration.
Throughout her educational journey and personal development, she embraced countless opportunities and transformative experiences that have shaped her into who she is today. With a strong sense of self-discovery and unwavering determination, she has found her true calling and stands confidently in her chosen path.
Savannah’s journey exemplifies resilience and serves as a reminder for individuals to unlock their potential.
Above all, she believes in living life to the fullest and finding joy in every moment, making sure to have fun along the way.
With boundless opportunities stretching out before her, she embraces the world with a sense of excitement and possibility, ready to make her mark.
Wellness coach and nutritionist
Savannah, a wellness coach and nutritionist, empathises with women’s struggles and insecurities about their bodies because of her journey of self-doubt. She believes that true beauty and grace come from embracing and working with what one has.
Driven by her desire to inspire women and promote self-acceptance, Savannah focuses on providing creative, enjoyable training sessions that make fitness a pleasurable experience. Her sessions include a variety of activities, from outdoor workouts to gentle stretching.
On days when motivation is low, she encourages clients to engage in friendly conversation or stretch until motivation returns.
Savannah designs personalised training programmes based on clients’ goals, history, and abilities. She emphasises the importance of patience, taking small steps every day, and not relying solely on the scale for progress.
She has witnessed remarkable transformations, such as a young woman who lost 15kg and gained confidence over six months of training.
As a nutritionist, Savannah helps clients overcome chronic diseases and develop effective treatment plans using the principles of nutritional therapies. She creates dietary plans considering individual factors and dispels weight loss myths.
Her greatest success story involves helping a young woman overcome her fear of food and achieve healthy body weight, enabling her to enjoy meals without guilt.
She encourages a sustainable approach, brings the importance of hydration to light, and reminds individuals to embark on their wellness journeys for themselves.
Model at heart
Her journey as a model has been a thrilling experience filled with growth and learning. After taking a break from fitness competitions, she pursued a career in modelling and became a Miss Earth top 10 finalist in 2022.
She is proud to be part of the core team at Opulent Models South Africa, a dynamic and talented group. Savannah finds the most rewarding part of the industry to be living her dream, including being on magazine covers and representing brands. However, she acknowledges the challenges of stereotypical expectations in modelling.
Her focus now is on happiness, making memories, and maintaining a healthy and sustainable lifestyle. She embraces her unique hourglass figure and incorporates weight training into her exercise regime.
Savannah aims to break the mould and encourage all women to value their worth, embracing their curves and imperfections. She remains thick-skinned in the face of criticism and prioritises what truly matters in life.
Her experiences with St Mary’s Children’s Home as a Miss Earth South Africa finalist taught her the importance of gratitude and making a difference in others’ lives. The people she has met and learnt from throughout her journey have been life-changing for her.
‘The most enjoyable part about being a model is that I am forever taking on new tasks. Each day is a new chapter in which I can grow and learn.
‘I have never been one to sit in an office, so being able to constantly travel, explore as well as take on new and exciting ventures is a bonus for me. I enjoy the fact that I can build meaningful relationships with my clients and fellow models.’
Things people might not know
- I have an intense attention to detail and a strong drive to complete tasks.
- Being extremely OCD, I won’t rest until I finish the specific task or assignment at hand. This trait can be quite captivating at times.
- I have a passion for sunglasses and, if I had the means, I would dedicate an entire shelf to them.
- Netflix is my addiction. With some popcorn, chocolate, and coffee, I can easily indulge in watching shows and movies for hours on end.
- I love caffeine, particularly cappuccino. It’s a daily necessity for me, and you can find me without fail at the Woolies Coffee Shop in Bassonia every morning.
- Two aspects of my life bring me immense joy and excitement. The gym is my ultimate escape from reality. Working out and listening to music is my way of relaxation and self-care. The second thing is horses. They hold a special place in my heart. Growing up surrounded by these remarkable animals as my father is a racehorse trainer, they have become my “home away from home.” I have a sincere love for them and often seek comfort and tranquillity in their presence.
OFF THE CUFF
- Do you prefer food, travel or art?
Both food and travel.
- Rain vs sunshine?
I love the rain.
- In what clique were you in school?
Despite being initially reserved and shy, I embraced adaptability and befriended diverse cliques, gaining valuable lessons in humility, tolerance, and non-judgment. I discovered the importance of loving and accepting others unconditionally, regardless of their backgrounds or pasts.
- What is your ultimate spoil?
Gifts that are less materialistic and more heart-driven.
- What do you most love about city life and living in Alberton?
The best part of city life in Alberton is the lasting relationships formed over the years. These cherished connections have become like family, providing unwavering support through life’s ups and downs.
- What are your wardrobe must-haves?
Gym tights as well as sexy jackets and heels. Yes, I still wear heels
even though I am tall LOL.
- What is your guilty pleasure?
Any form of chocolate. Pizza and carrot cake are a close second!
- What do you always have with you when you leave the house?
I make sure that I always have my purse, perfume, and lipstick with me.
- What are your pet peeves?
Arrogance and putting oneself above another person, thinking you are
superior or that the world owes you something.
- Who is your hero?
My Lord and Saviour. I would not be where I am today without
His guidance and protection.
- What would you do if you won R10m tomorrow?
I would prioritise supporting my family and ensure their comfort by
sharing a portion of the money. After that, I would focus on helping the less fortunate and underprivileged, providing care, and support, and contributing wherever I can.
Text: ELZAAN PIENAAR. Photo: SEAN LEVITT. Hair and Makeup: DYLAN MORAIS.
