We all knew there could only be one. We also knew that at some time the Presenter Search competition would come to an end.

After the cooking challenge, we rushed back to our rooms. We had half an hour to get ready for the second elimination. The Top 6 would be cut down to the Top 4.

We sat down facing the three judges and the elimination began. My heart was pounding so much. I didn’t want to leave, but I wasn’t feeling very confident after the cooking challenge. Still, I like to believe in being optimistic.

Tamika Doubell was called up first and I had a lump in my throat. She walked off the “set” and then they called Simba up. I was shocked. Surely he wouldn’t be going home. It turned out I was right. They then called my name and I numbly stood up. Risuna Mayimele, the Marketing Manager of SABC and one of the judges said to me: “Bailey, I fought for you to be in the Top 14. You were one of the strongest contestants in Pilanesburg. You really are very very good. You have stayed consistent and haven’t really upped that. The others have also caught up to you. I’m afraid it’s time for you to leave.”

I thanked the judges for the incredible opportunity and thanked them for everything I learned. I also wished the remaining 4 contestants the very best in the competition.

I guess I was on autopilot as I walked off “set” … It hadn’t quite sunk in but I could feel tears rolling down my cheeks.

I felt incredibly sad and disappointed, but I also felt proud for accomplishing so much. I know I tried my absolute best and I gave it my all. I was completely myself and I did my best to apply all the advice the judges and crew gave us.

That evening we all had drinks and partied! I even jumped into the pool and the ocean in my maxi dress with some of the crew and Justin. It was a night I’ll never forget.

Justin, Tamika, JP and I spent the rest of the time on the beach, snorkeling, playing beach volley ball and spending time on the shoots with the Top 4. It was fantastic.

I know it sounds cliched, but the contestants came to become good friends that I am still in touch with today. You cannot put a price tag on the experience. No TV presenting course could cover everything we were taught.Yes, it was mentally, emotionally and physically exhausting, but this has made me even hungrier to become a TV presenter. I’m definitely going to take all the good out of this experience.

Would I do it again? Absolutely.

I’m looking forward to growing as a TV presenter.

I’d like to also wish Kaone, Kalysha, Kenneth and Simba the VERY BEST. I really believe that every person in the Top 8 was deserving of the title, so I am very proud of every person!

Thank you to Top Billing, to the incredible crew, to the judges and to the Top 14 contestants that I absolutely adore.