The name Margaret Gardiner is synonomous with glamour, beauty, poise, style and more, as we reflect on the international cover girl at just 16, crowned Miss South Africa at 18, who became South Africa’s first Miss Universe in 1978.
This female icon forged an international career as fashion editor at goldenglobes.com, working with A-list stars on the red carpet, as an author of non-fiction (Human & Rousseau) and fiction (Naledi) books, advocating for diversity, equity and inclusion and hosting international panels. Her collaborations with the Miss Universe Organization continues. Margaret was invited to Mexico where she was crowned 47 years earlier, as part of the selection committee of the current winner, Victoria Kjaer Theilvig.
As we wrap up August as Women’s Month, it’s important to focus on her many years of advocating for women’s rights and social justice.
Now from her home in Los Angeles, California, she uses her platform to raise awareness about issues such as cyberbullying, mental health and the pressures of living in the public eye.
MARGARET TURNS 66
Last week, on August 21st, Margaret celebrated her 66th birthday, and rather than “slow down”, she feels that she’s in fact, just getting started.
Earlier this year, Gardiner released her debut novel DAMAGED BEAUTY: JOEY SUPERSTAR (also available in Afrikaans as Bedorwe Skoonheid: Joey Superster) a powerful story that delves deep into the untold challenges women face. It not only captivates readers but also offers thought-provoking insights.
More than just fiction, it sheds light on issues that often remain in the shadows. With her unique perspective and exceptional storytelling ability, Gardiner addresses these themes in a way that is both compelling and impactful.
She has recently been invited to be part of the Influential Women of Los Angeles and was invited to receive the ‘World Women Leader in Media’ through the Charity For a Better Society, part of the Who is Who International Awards, this year in Greece.
She’s about to head to the Toronto International Film Festival while also working as an entertainment journalist – having recently interviewed Gerard Butler for How To Train Your Dragon, Margaret prioritizes inspiring women to own their truth and self advocacy.
Gardiner exclaims, “It’s thrilling to continue to influence women to evolve, lean into opportunities and self actualize to their full potential”.
MARGARET GARDINER NEWSLETTER
Her birthday co-incides with the launch of her new website that includes an option to subscribe to her newsletter, where she will be addressing issues relevant to women, aging, health, positivity and advocacy, giving women a platform where they can be seen and heard.
BULLYING
While Margaret continues to live her life in the public eye, it hasn’t all been plain sailing.
She was part of the selection committee for Miss Universe in November 2024, which led to her being bullied on social media.
The lanky beauty who has had several bouts with cancer, fought back and has become an advocate for mental health and body positivity.
Rather than back down or cower, this was Gardiner’s response, one that many women since are responding to; “Women seemed quite angry about how I look, and a few suggested that I retire, sit quietly and stop trying to be young. Having had face cancer, it was challenging to read the comments, when my main focus is not on how I look but how I live my life.”
She continues; “I refuse to sit in a corner and wait to die. To me, life is about evolving, not getting stuck where you were. That means embracing change and eschewing a format that restricts women, no matter their age, to what society expects them to be.”
She concludes; “At 66 the world is full of possibilities and each day continues to be an adventure”.
WHAT’S NEXT?
Plans are currently being finalised for Gardiner’s second book in the series; Damaged Beauty: The Corruption of Charlie Cross, which is due out in 2026.
Drawing from the headlines it includes a Jeffrey Epstein-like encounter that showcases the vulnerability of young, aspirational girls on the edge of fame.
Further details on the book will be available closer to release date.
Comments
Post a Comment