Photographer: Anthony Horak Photography / Make-up: Michelle nolan (FOTM)
When she smiles her eyes immediately lights up and there is no denying – Marijke Bezuidenhout is a true natural beauty. If you’re an avid television soap fan you might recognise her from her roles as Lizl in Binnelanders or the feisty pregnant Minki in 7de Laan.
But, what you might not know is that she actually started her professional career as a dancer and sort of fell into acting.
“After school I moved to America and for the first three months lived in the heart of Los Angeles. It’s not as glamorous as it seems in the movies and is a lot like Johannesburg. I spent about six hours per day at the dance studio and a whole new world opened for me,” Marijke says.
She describes the leap of faith as the scariest, yet best thing she’s ever done as she had to grow up fast. “To be honest, if I think back on it now and have to do it all over again I’m not sure if I would have the courage to do it. But I’m very glad I did,” she adds.
Marijke trained in Contemporary, Jazz, Hip Hop and Latin dance while in America, but it was while staying with an acting coach that the acting bug bit – she instantly fell in love.
Apart from her television roles she’s also been a part of theatre productions like Liefling, Reik na die Sterre and Extravaganza and even appeared in a few music videos for artists like Burgerd Botha, Richard Stirton, Dirk van der Westhuizen and Brendan Peyper.
Marijke also boasts a degree in BCom Business Management from Unisa but says it was tough managing her studies while working as an actress. “It was rough. I finished the three-year degree in four years as I just couldn’t find enough time for studying. Having to teach yourself everything with only the help of a textbook also made it difficult,” she explains.
There seems to be no end to the bubbly Menlo Park resident’s talents as one of her other passions is photography. “There is a quote by Alfred Stieglitz – ‘In photography there is a reality so subtle that it becomes more real than reality.’ I think it sums up my love for photography perfectly,” Marijke says. Her photography business’ name is Moì Lens and she specialises in wedding photography, engagement shoots, party photos and portrait photography.
Three years ago after a dancing accident, Marijke had to undergo an operation to her hip and started doing Pilates as part of her recovery. “I’ve always loved exercising and Pilates is all about exercising the smallest muscles in your body. When the smaller muscles aren’t strong enough, the bigger muscles cannot excel,” she says. Marijke offers private Pilates lessons at people’s homes to help focus on every individual’s needs, injuries and shortcomings,” she says. Marijke still actively competes in dance and will be flaunting her skills along with her partner, Keith Kichenbrand when competing in the South African Latin Dance Championships this month.
Feeling tired yet thinking about all that Marijke has going on? Well, there’s more.
Honeycomb Clothing Collective is a brand new business venture Marijke started. It’s an online shop filled with all your must-have summer fashion buys. “I love searching for clothes and decided to turn my passion into a business,” Marijke explains. You can follow Honeycomb Clothing Collective on Instagram (@honeycomb_clothingcollective).
Unfortunately for men out there, the local beauty with the infectious smile, is in a relationship with her childhood sweetheart, Marco Nel. The couple met when they were just 13 years old, dated for three years and then split up for two-and-half years after their parents told them they were far too serious. Marijke and Marco got back together three years ago and as they say, the rest is history. They share a passion for sports and although a farmer at heart, Marijke says Marco has a passion for business and finance.
With Christmas around the corner, Marijke and her family is heading to the beach. “The festive season is a time to show the people in your life how much you love them and to be as friendly as can be to anyone around you. Love in abundance, for everyone and everything,” she say.
For the New Year Marijke dreams about scoring a lead role in a movie and that her businesses would grow beyond her wildest expectations. “Oh yes, and do keep an eye out for me in 7de Laan. Minkie will be back,” she laughs.
More about Marijke
When I’m not working….
I love to relax with a good romantic comedy. I also love reading, painting or colouring in.
Favourite coffee shop…
It’s a toss-up between Aroma and Spout Coffee in Hazelwood.
Favourite food…
Burger and chips when I’m tired, pasta when I am tired or cold and pizza on a Friday night.
I stay fit by…
Exercising. I switch between boxing, Crossfit, yoga, Pilates and dance.
My beauty secret…
Is lots of water and a truly happy heart. A facial a month and good facial products also helps.
