As part of our maverick series we have decided to launch our very first interview with someone special! We kick off this brilliant series the epitome of PR-perfection, the legendary Lorinda Voges!
Lorinda is someone who has conformed herself to every sector of the media life. She’s created her business (4ElementsMedia) empire from the ground up, while connecting herself to many other projects. She’s a socialite, fashionista and more importantly a force to be reckoned with. As you can see already, it’s obvious why we chose Lorinda to start the maverick series, grab your pen and paper, you’re going to want to take notes.
GoTrend: So Lorinda, tell us a little more about yourself?
LV: Who is Lorinda? Well first and foremost she is a sister, a friend, an aunt and entrepreneur. I would describe myself as an analytical thinker trapped in a creative mind, free-spirited, caring, hardworking and passionate in everything I do, whether it is work or love.
GoTrend: As the director/owner of the super-successful company, 4ElementsMedia, did you ever think it would be as big as it is now?
LV: No never. I am still humbled and extremely grateful for every achievement. I know hard work pays off and I cherish the relationships I form within my business environment.
GoTrend: What’s the toughest thing to deal with when doing your job?
LV: I have a love hate relationship with social media. Don’t get me wrong, as a business tool, it’s one of the most exciting things. Personally I feel social media encourage an endless stream of self promotion. People are more concerned about forming online relationships with people they’ll never meet or allow strangers & stalkers into their private lives without being concerned about real life relationships & connections. Social media might make users more narcissistic, because it gives everyone the illusion of self-importance, grandiose, and need for admirations. I truly believe that people will start losing out in heart to heart interactions, if the fear of losing that self-image kicks in….
GoTrend: Being so busy all the time must take its toll, what do you do to chill out?
LV: I love spending time on my own. I am my own best friend. I am comfortable with my own company. I can easily go to a movie on my own and shop on my own. I have travelled to countries on my own. Being on my own is my way to escape from a world that constantly demand attention or your presence.
GoTrend: Being a fashion trendsetter, where does your inspiration come from and what are some of your favourite brands?
LV: Internationally I draw my inspiration from Rihanna. I love how she can dress up and look like a princess and at the same time she can rock street style fashion. My favourite brands have to be Topshop South Africa, River Island, Zara and Eleclass, a local street fashion brand.
GoTrend: What are some of your beauty routines that you can’t live without?
LV: I follow a strict beauty routine on a daily basis. My go-to skincare products are Dermalogica and Clarins. From a make up point of view I rely on Elizabeth Arden and MAC. I drink at least 3 litres of water and I believe in getting at least 8 hours sleep in a night.
GoTrend: If there’s advice you could give to someone about getting into the industry of PR or business ownership what would you say?
LV: You have to have a thick skin. You have to be confident in the products and the brands you sell and you have to be able to connect with people. At no time is this industry as glamorous as it is perceived. You work long and hard hours, you are unappreciated at the most of times and you need to be organised. Very, very organised.
GoTrend: What is the future looking like for you Lorinda?
LV: This year I want to continue focusing on the brands I represent and manage. I work some of the best celebrities in the industry and I am proud to work with international brands such as Clarins, Dermalogica, Banana Republic, Thierry Mugler as well as Hard Rock Cafe.
GoTrend: To end off, what’s a favourite quote or motto of yours?
LV: My favorite quote has to be the the tattoo on my right arm: “Never a failure always a lesson” it is a daily reminder that no matter what happens in life, you can take from it and grow.
What can we take away from this, We’ll tell you! Lorinda aims for what she wants, she puts her plans into action and she achieves! This is why she is truly one of our media mavericks! To catch up with Lorinda follow her on Twitter below!
