Michelle Gildenhuys was born in Kraaifontein, Cape Town. She is 20 years old and is actively involved in the Tygerbear Organisation for traumatised children and their families. She is also a volunteer for CHOC, helping the challenges faced by children suffering from cancer.

She loves writing, reading, photography and drama and enjoys watching movies, her favourites being; Grease, Dirty Dancing and Breakfast at Tiffany's.

Among her role models and most influential people in her life, Michelle has high regard for her late grandfather who she says never failed to amaze her. Michelle also admires Nelson Mandela, the Springbok Rugby Team, Natalie Du Toit and Oscar Pistorius for their determination, ambition, impact and pride they have given to all South Africans.

Michelle is driven by achievement and adventure and wants to be a successful business woman. Her dream is to own a Culture Centre for Youth.

She feels that surrounding herself with people who support her dreams and goals will play a big role in her success and she is disappointed in people if they don't fulfil their true potential.