Her Story: Reeva Steenkamp

Lavinia Wanjau
5 min readApr 23, 2024

Self-defence or cold-blooded murder?

Reeva Steenkamp (Courtesy of CNN)

The vibrant glow of South Africa’s modeling scene dimmed considerably on Valentine’s Day, 2013. Reeva Steenkamp, a rising star with a captivating smile and a passion for justice, was found brutally murdered in the Pretoria home of her boyfriend, Paralympic athlete Oscar Pistorius. Steenkamp’s death, shrouded in a fog of conflicting narratives and a lengthy legal battle, became a story that transcended the pages of the magazines she graced. It was a chilling reminder of a life brimming with potential, extinguished far too soon.

Born in Cape Town in 1983, Steenkamp blossomed from a bright young woman into a captivating model. Her beauty wasn’t merely superficial; it was infused with a warmth that resonated with photographers and audiences alike. Her career trajectory was impressive, taking her from local campaigns to the pages of FHM magazine. Steenkamp’s ambition extended beyond the glamour of the modeling world. At the time of her passing, she was pursuing a law degree, working as a paralegal, and demonstrated a deep commitment to making a positive impact. Her support for the Spirit Day anti-bullying campaign showcased her compassion and desire to create a kinder world.

Steenkamp’s path soon crossed with that of Oscar Pistorius, a celebrated Paralympic athlete known as the “Blade Runner” due to his…

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Lavinia Wanjau

I believe every victim deserves a voice, especially those whose stories have been silenced by fear, societal bias, or a brutal end.