Ace Models Team
Ace Models International is under the guidance of well-known business woman and entrepreneur, CEO Joani Johnson, and her team of modelling professionals.
CEO & Founder
Joani Johnson
“It is so fulfilling to be part of Ace Models International and have the platform to inspire and empower. ”
Joani Jacobs is a South African entrepreneur, author, and visionary leader with over two decades of experience in the modelling, pageant, and media industries. She is the CEO of Mrs South Africa (Pty) Ltd, a leading women’s empowerment platform she has grown into one of the most respected brands of its kind since 2011.
Joani is also the Founder and CEO of Ace Models International, a global modelling and personal development academy operating across multiple countries. Through Ace, she has developed thousands of young women, focusing on confidence, leadership, and personal growth.
An award-winning businesswoman and former Mrs South Africa, Joani is the author of WORTHY and is widely recognised for her contribution to female empowerment and youth development.
COO
Anri Powell
“You truly become your dream and live your best life with Ace Models South International.”
Anri Powell is a South African entrepreneur, shareholder of Ace Models International, and franchise development leader with over 20 years of experience in building high-performing franchise operations, including leading the Bloemfontein flagship branch to Franchise of the Year for five consecutive years.
Since becoming a shareholder in 2016 and relocating to Cape Town, she has focused on franchise mentorship, systems, and strategic growth across the brand, while also serving as Chapter Manager for YPO Greater Cape, supporting executive-level entrepreneurs — and as a married mother of two young adults, she is passionate about faith-led leadership, personal development, and empowering others to step fully into their potential.
CSO
Cindy Nell
“Owning your own Ace Models Franchise Academy is a wonder opportunity to be your own boss. It is a lucrative business with a very high return on investment.”
A former Miss South Africa turned television presenter has joined Ace Models International as the development director. Cindy embodies the lifestyle that women aspire to and admire. Cindy is the glamourous girl next door and multi-talented cover star with a string of achievements under her belt including Miss Universe runner up 2003.
She is co-owner of the cosmetic company Good Clean Beauty Co, mother, model, MC and socialite. She boasts over 55 magazine covers, international and local modelling endorsements and is a published author of her Book “The Model and Pageant industry.” Cindy adds incredible value to Ace Models with her experience, expertise and media profile and focusses on business development and marketing of the business.
BOARD MEMBER, SHAREHOLDER
Roshini Pakkiree
Roshini Pakkiree, businesswoman and Director of Thohoyandou Beer Distributors and RMS Transporters, serves as shareholder and board member. With extensive operational experience and as founder of the Sanjit Train of Hope Foundation, she brings strong governance insight and a deep commitment to community impact.
DIRECTOR, BOARD MEMBER, SHAREHOLDER
Léchar Knezowich
Léchar Knezowich, Director of Ace Models Rosebank and Director of Mr & Miss Ace Models International, serves as board member and shareholder. She currently holds the title of Mrs International South Africa, where she will represent South Africa on the international stage. With a Master’s degree in Human Resource Management, she combines academic leadership expertise with mentorship-driven empowerment.
CFO, SHAREHOLDER
Margaux Louw
Margaux Louw, Chartered Accountant and long-standing CFO of Mrs South Africa and Ace Models International, continues her role as shareholder and financial custodian of the brand. With over a decade of financial leadership within the organisation, she ensures strong governance, compliance and long-term sustainability
DIRECTOR, SHAREHOLDER
Kyla Taylor
Kyla Taylor, Director of Ace Models Randburg and proud Ace alumna, serves as shareholder bringing industry experience, mentorship expertise and fresh youthful energy to the brand. With a strong focus on ethical model development, wellness and long-term career sustainability, she contributes valuable next-generation insight to the organisation’s continued growth.