Tell us a little bit about yourself: who you are, where you’re from and what you do
My name is Amelia Ntloko. I was born and bred in the Eastern Cape in a small town called Idutywa. I work at an international call centre for a bank in America as a fraud analyst/ consultant.
What made you decide to enter the Switch Up Your Life competition?
I entered the Switch Up Your Life competition because I saw it as an exciting opportunity to win a car and transform my daily routine. I thought why not give it a shot. I just knew I had to enter, I believed I was going to win. I have a Switch Energy Drink almost everyday so this was a chance to win a dream car and experience the thrill of driving a brand new car.
Walk us through your first reaction and how you felt when you were told you won a car?
When I received a call informing me that I had won the car, I was completely overwhelmed! I couldn’t believe it: shock, excitement and pure joy all mixed together. I remember I even cried during the phone call. At some point I thought it was a prank but when I received the second phone call, I realised it was real. I’m still pinching myself to see if it’s all just a dream. It was a surreal moment and I’m so thankful to have had this experience.
What does winning the car mean to you and what impact is it going to have on your daily life?
Winning a car means freedom and convenience, especially for someone like me who works night shifts. It means I no longer have to worry about alternative transportation costs or relying on others for rides. It’s going to make a huge difference to my daily commute and running errands. It’s a life-changing opportunity, it represents independence, adventure and the ability to create memories with loved ones. It’s also a chance to upgrade my lifestyle and pursue opportunities that I thought were out of reach.
Have you ever won anything like this before?
No, I have never won anything like this before – in fact I have never won anything. I’m thrilled to have had this experience and hope it sets a positive tone for the future. Like winning the lottery next, if you know what I mean.
Who was the first person you told the news? Did they believe it was real?
I told my friend at work first, since she was my biggest supporter and actually believed that I could win. She didn’t believe the news at first but after I confirmed it was real, she freaked out and talked about it the whole night.
What is the first trip you made in your brand-new car after the pickup?
I visited my cousin at her workplace. She’s my biggest cheerleader and was more than excited for me to receive the car.
Do you have any road trip plans for the near future?
Yes, I do. My partner and I will be going on a weekend stay soon. Then I’m planning a girls trip to Haartebees at the end of November.
Is there anything you would like to say to anyone considering entering the competition?
To anyone considering entering the competition, I’d say go for it! It’s a great opportunity and you never know what life changing moments might come from it. My advice would be to take the leap and give it a try, you have nothing to lose. I mean if I can win, anyone can. So good luck to everyone.
