ISLAND BABE
She’s not one to sit back when it comes to adrenaline-pumping challenges, so former Miss SA, model and TV presenter MELINDA BAM is sure to make a great competitor in the next season of the SABC3 reality series Tropika Island of Treasure, which is filmed in the Maldives and will air next year.
The competition sees celeb contestants paired with members of the public and the winning team will walk away with R1 million. We chatted to Melinda about her upcoming island adventure. If you could take just three items with you to a remote island, what would they be? Sunscreen, a boat (with a GPS and a tank of fuel) and a satellite phone. What are you looking forward to most about the show? The challenges! I enjoy throwing myself in the deep end, having new experiences and developing skills. The fact that it’s happening in my favourite place in the world definitely doesn’t hurt. Is there anything you’re not particularly looking forward to? Being away from my husband [former Mr SA Adriaan Bergh]. I wish I could put him in my suitcase! How are you preparing for the competition? I’m exercising and trying to get fitter and stronger than usual, although the challenges aren’t only physical. I think my problemsolving skills are already quite developed. What are you looking for in a teammate? I’m looking for someone who’s clever, tough, strategic and a kickass swimmer and who has good team spirit. Why do you think you stand a chance of winning? I’m an all-rounder. I’m fit, quite strong and not scared of a challenge. I have staying power and I know mental prowess is one of my strong points. It helps with strategic challenges, where you need to find solutions. You’ve been to the Maldives twice before – do you think that gives you an edge? At least I know what to expect and what the weather’s like. In that heat and humidity I usually want to do the minimum! But my head’s in the right place so even if my makeup is running with perspiration and my hair frizzes, I’ll push on!