Actress Boity Thulo - who's in the race to become FHM's "sexiest woman on the planet" - believes the competition celebrates women and does not "objectify" them.
Thulo's pert derriere in Marie Claire's annual Naked issue recently caused a Twitter stir.
Thulo, 23, who stars in the Mzansi Magic soapie Rockville, is now well on her way to becoming a household name.
She was nominated for FHM's 100 sexiest women title for the third time. She is competing with Rihanna, Charlize Theron and Megan Fox, among others.
"It's really exciting, very flattering and feels lovely. I'm always excited about the Top 100."
Thulo said beauty titles do not objectify women.
"I believe they celebrate women. You are what you believe."
Thulo's Twitter profile shot through the roof when she retweeted a picture of herself posing in nothing but a towel around her head for the Marie Claire Naked shoot.
She has honed her body through healthy eating and rigorous work-outs and will start her own fitness classes.
"I want to inspire others, especially young adults, to take better care of their body."
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