For the first time in history, the Mister International Ambassador Programme will be hosted in South Africa, right here on our shores in Gqeberha.
Mister International national director for South Africa, Andile Vinjiwe, said that the ultimate goal of the pageant is to groom young men for their own betterment, as well as the betterment of society.
“Mister International is an event programme that targets young men between the ages of 18 and 35 years who are looking to build their self-confidence, whilst contributing positively to their communities. Our objective is to cultivate socially conscious men, and we achieve this through our mentorship programme as reflected in our #boychildmatterstoo campaign,” said Vinjiwe.
Gqeberha-born Vinjiwe is the founder of the Mr Body Beautiful; he embarked on a mission to make a meaningful impact in his community after two decades of working for the national carrier, SAA. What began as a personal quest quickly blossomed into a legacy project that empowers young men and redefines masculinity.
“Mr Body Beautiful seeks to address a pressing issue of young men, neglected by both the government and society, facing immense pressure to succeed and provide. In 2017, rising cases of violence and crime, including rape, urged me to take action. I sought to create a safe space for young men to express themselves, channel their emotions positively, and embrace self-discipline through fitness and health consciousness. The name ‘Mr. Body Beautiful’ was carefully chosen to challenge societal norms. Men are often expected to suppress their emotions, leading to pent-up frustrations that can manifest in harmful ways. This brand empowers men to take pride in their bodies as a result of self-discipline,” Vinjiwe explained.
The event will be held at the Boardwalk Hotel on September 14, 2024. Online registrations opened on February 1, and will close on March 31.
“In April we will commence with our national physical auditions covering five major South African cities. After selecting our national finalists they will arrive in Gqeberha for an exciting two-week training programme that will include a regional tour, fashion shows, acting workshop, mentoring the youth in schools, keeping the beaches clean among other activities,” said Vinjiwe.
The programme is looking for young men who are self-starters, have a passion for community and seek to encourage, motivate and mentor other young men to not let circumstances shape their futures.
The winner will represent South Africa in Manila in the Philippines, at the global Mister International in November this year.
For Vinjiwe, being appointed as the Mister International National Director for South Africa is confirmation that one must never give up in pursuit of their vision and dreams.
“Through sheer determination and persistence, I have managed get one step closer to cultivating socially conscious men who aspire to become positive contributors to their communities. And that’s why this programme matters so much to me,” he concluded.
For more information or to receive the registration link, WhatsApp 081 267 2531.
