The annual Biogen Face of Fitness cover model search never fails to uncover new talent in the health and fitness industry.

Every year, aspiring fitness models enter the competition as they chase their dream of becoming a brand ambassador and industry influencer.

Over the years, this popular cover model search competition has established itself as the ideal platform to launch a career in the fitness industry, and creates numerous opportunities for the finalists to inspire other women and help them achieve their health and fitness goals.

Set your soul on fire

This year, Tamsyn Dexter, a Pilates and stretch instructor, professional dancer, aerialist, and contortionist from the East Rand in Johannesburg earned the coveted title.

“I’m a huge advocate for pursuing your passions. Sometimes your passion can be scary, unconventional and against social norms but you have to do what sets your soul on fire.”

This life philosophy prompted Tamsyn to enter the competition and potentially take her career and industry profile to the next level.

“You can have so much power over your life if you choose to focus on what excites you. By following your passion, you will inspire those around you, and by honouring your calling, success will follow.”

Fitness-focused lifestyle

According to Tamsyn, health and fitness have featured prominently throughout her life.

“My family environment while growing up was centred around health and fitness. I also competed in various sports at school and represented my province and country as an athlete.”

Tamsyn’s passion for fitness and her active lifestyle eventually led to her career in dance and the performing arts.

“As I started to understand and listen to my body, I learnt what my body needed mentally, physically and from a nutritional perspective to perform at my best on stage. I then developed an interest in stretching, contortion and aerial, which has brought a different dimension to my performing, and my fitness journey.”

Tamsyn believes that she wouldn’t be the dancer, aerialist, performer or person she is today without a consistent fitness regimen. She now constantly looks for ways to push herself physically and mentally.

Move more, get outdoors

“My approach to fitness is simply about constantly moving my body and living a healthy lifestyle. My philosophy is to be grateful for what my body is capable of and to appreciate the progress I have made.”

Tamsyn also takes her training outdoors whenever possible, and advocates this approach to her clients and those she advises.

“I love training in the sun, hearing the birds chirp, and admiring the vibrant colours.”

Path to fame

Tamsyn’s path to cover model and brand ambassador status started when she submitted her pictures, video and entry information to the competition.

With her profile posted on the competition website, she used her networks and social media platforms to gain support from friends, family, clients and fans during the online voting round.

She was one of 32 hopefuls to make it through to the next round, where she competed for a place in the round of 12 and a shot at attending the final three-day photo shoot experience.

Based on her photos from the shoot, her engagements with the judges, her social media activity, and her ability to embody Biogen’s brand values of constantly striving to #BEYOURBEST by living fit and healthy every day, Tamsyn earned the Biogen Face of Fitness title for 2021.

Prizes galore!

You’ll find Tamsyn on the cover of the latest Fitness magazine (on sale now!). She also secured a year-long brand ambassador role with title sponsor Biogen. Her sponsorship contract includes R30,000 in products and apparel and R20,000 in cash.

This year’s grand prize also includes an Advanced Personal Trainer Diploma worth R18,500 from HFPA, a 1-year Moove Gym membership worth R35,988, access to Fitness Mag Studio group workouts for a year (worth R14,400), and a private professional photoshoot with official Biogen Face of Fitness photographer, Sean Levitt from Juiced Media (valued at R4,000).

Decathlon, the competition’s new clothing sponsor, provided Tamsyn with R10,000 in fitness apparel. She also has an opportunity to unlock a ambassadorship role with the brand.

And you can look out for Tamsyn on television as her grand prize includes five episodes in the popular 5 Colour Fitness Show presented by FHA, which airs on DSTV. This package is worth R1,000,000 in media exposure and includes an all-expenses paid travel and film experience.

Quick facts

  • Age: 22
  • Occupation: Professional Dancer, Aerialist, Contortionist, Pilates and Stretch Instructor
  • Lives: Witfontein
  • Instagram: @tam_dex
  • Facebook: Tamsyn Dexter