Today we’d like to introduce you to Cindy Von Ahlefeldt
Hi Cindy, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Back in 2019, I was in my biology class when I struck up a friendship with one of my lab partners. I had moved from South Africa to the U.S. in 2017, and between focusing on track and earning my degree, I never really thought about venturing into anything else. One day, she casually asked me if I had ever modeled before. At the time, I had very little experience, so I just shrugged and said, “A little.” She then invited me to join her for a photoshoot and to cast for a runway show.
I decided to give it a shot, and that’s where it all began—with an admittedly awkward photoshoot and my very first runway show. From there, it blossomed into something much bigger than I ever imagined. It’s funny how sometimes the most unexpected moments open doors you never knew were there.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road—far from it. My challenges started back in 2017 when I first moved to the U.S. after being recruited for track and field. One day, I made the leap, packed my life into two bags, and left my family and South Africa behind, chasing the dream of a better future. I had just two bags and about $200 to my name, thanks to what my parents could pull together. It really felt like I was starting from scratch with nothing but hope.
Thankfully, my scholarship covered my dorm, tuition, and a meal plan at the cafeteria, which kept me going. But it wasn’t easy. Transitioning into college English classes was tough, especially since I grew up speaking Afrikaans. On top of that, my family couldn’t afford to support me financially, so I had to figure out how to make ends meet on my own. I took a job on campus just to cover basics like toiletries, but even then, I was barely scraping by.
Then, out of nowhere, modeling came into my life. It started as a chance encounter, but it opened doors I never expected. It gave me the opportunity to network, grow my platform, and create something I never imagined for myself. While the road was bumpy, every challenge shaped the journey I’m on today.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
It’s a tough question to answer because my life and work are so diverse. Professionally, I’m currently a doctoral student, balancing teaching undergraduates and tutoring on the side. Beyond academia, I’m deeply involved in community events and volunteer work I love charity work and I recently joined a program to teach adults how to read, if I’m not doing that you’ll see me running a 5k somewhere in support of a charity. I’m also a brand ambassador for several companies, traveling across the U.S. for runway shows, brand campaigns, commercial shoots, and more—and I absolutely love it. Recently, I’ve taken on helping businesses grow their social media presence by analyzing algorithms and trends, drawing on insights from one of my research projects on social media engagement and user motivation.
I’d say I specialize in a variety of areas depending on what you’re looking for. Whether it’s being a brand ambassador, teaching, tutoring, or speaking at events, I thrive in dynamic roles that allow me to connect with people and make an impact.
There are so many things I’m proud of, but a few stand out. Track and field is what gave me the opportunity to begin this journey, and it’s something I’m incredibly grateful for. It’s not just a sport; it taught me discipline, perseverance, and how to keep pushing forward when the road gets tough. As a student-athlete, I learned to balance competing at a high level while excelling academically—a skill set that continues to serve me today in managing my multifaceted life. Track and field brought me to the U.S., opened doors I never imagined, and laid the foundation for everything I’ve achieved since. As a first-generation college student, giving the commencement speech for my university in 2020 was an incredible honor. It was a full-circle moment for me, representing the hard work and sacrifices that brought me here. I’m also proud of my ability to juggle multiple things while staying committed to my goals—whether that’s pursuing my doctorate, representing brands, or mentoring students. I take pride in my public speaking skills and being someone who can confidently engage with diverse audiences. From academic achievements to professional milestones, I’m most proud of living a life that’s as versatile as it is fulfilling.
I think it’s my range of skills and adaptability. I’ve worked across such diverse fields—academia, modeling, brand management, and social media strategy—and I’m equally passionate about all of them. I’m someone who’s not afraid to embrace new challenges or step out of my comfort zone. Whether I’m in a classroom, on a runway, or speaking to an audience, I bring my authentic self to everything I do. What truly sets me apart is my ability to balance these different facets of my life while staying grounded, approachable, and driven to make an impact in every space I step into. My goal is to make an impact, and I’m doing that one step at a time.
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
If there’s one thing I’d share with anyone reading this, it’s to believe in your ability to adapt and overcome. You don’t need to have everything figured out—just take the first step and trust that you’ll learn and grow along the way.
Contact Info:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cindelsva7
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaYLRtcQK45Y6x42d0_jOlg
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@cindy_van7
