Jacques Gous, a mental-health advocate from Bellville, was crowned Mr Gay World South Africa at a ceremony held on 16 May in Pretoria — bringing the title home and shining a global spotlight on the causes he has championed for years.
Siyabonga Shabalala was named first runner-up, while Gevaughn Brandt claimed second runner-up honours.
The win caps what has been a remarkable journey for Gous, who grew up in a predominantly Afrikaans-speaking religious community that was hostile towards LGBTQ+ people and has drawn on his own lived experience of depression, anxiety and substance abuse to become a voice for those who feel unseen and unheard.
Resilience at the heart of his message
In a statement shared by the Mr Gay World Organisation on its official Instagram page, Gous addressed the world with characteristic candour.
“Representing South Africa on the global stage at Mr Gay World is both an honour and a responsibility I carry with immense pride,” he wrote. “As someone deeply passionate about fitness, personal growth, and meaningful advocacy, I believe this platform is about far more than appearance — it’s about purpose, impact, and creating space for authentic conversations.”
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His advocacy is rooted in mental-health awareness and addiction recovery — causes that are, by his own account, deeply personal. He has attended support meetings twice weekly for four years, completing more than 400 meetings in that time.
“I understand the importance of speaking up, seeking support, and breaking the silence around struggles so many people face behind closed doors,” he said. “Through my journey, I hope to remind others that vulnerability is not weakness, and that healing begins the moment we allow ourselves to be seen and heard.”
Breaking the stigma, one conversation at a time
Gous has long used the Mr Gay World South Africa platform as a vehicle for advocacy, partnering with community organisations, schools and local safe spaces, and pushing for more affordable outpatient programmes, community-based support groups, better education and stronger aftercare services. He has pointed to the stark reality facing those in need, with private rehabilitation costing between R50 000 and R100 000, while state services are frequently burdened by long waiting periods.
His message to LGBTQ+ youth has been consistent: “Stand up, speak up, and reach out.”
Now, as Mr Gay World, that message carries further than ever.
“No one should ever feel ashamed of their story, their emotions, or their identity,” he said. “Every person deserves to feel valued, supported, and empowered to live authentically. I stand for resilience, hope, and the belief that even the smallest step forward matters. ‘1% better than yesterday.’”
A win for more than one community
While Gous’s crown is a personal triumph, he was clear that the victory belongs to a far wider circle.
“This journey is bigger than me — it is for every individual who has ever felt unseen, unheard, or alone,” he said. “As Mr Gay World South Africa, I am proud to represent not only my country, but also a message of courage, inclusivity, and compassion. Together, we continue to rise.”
Those who wish to support his work or connect with him can do so via Instagram at @jacques.gous or by e-mailing gousjr@gmail.com.
