UKZN Law graduate and model, Mr Thando Mbanjwa, is amongst the Top 19 semi-finalists for Mr Supranational South Africa 2023 set to take place on 15 March 2023.
The 27-year-old stands a chance to represent South Africa in Poland should he win the title.
‘I entered in October last year and in January, I was in the semi-finals selection in Johannesburg where I made it into the Top 19. I’m doing all that I can to be in the Top 10 which will be selected in March,’ said Mbanjwa, who had entered a similar competition in 2019 but pulled out to focus on his studies.
‘My degree in Bachelor of Laws has helped me with my speaking skills and to be able to think on the spot and answer conscious questions, and has also influenced my advocacy which deals with the youth.’ he said.
He has held the titles of Mr UKZN, Mr Pinetown, Mr Umlazi, Mr Zululand, and Mr Global South Africa. Mbanjwa believes that his experience and skills will help him win the Mr Supranational South Africa 2023 title so that he can be a role model.
‘I aim to be a winner with a purpose to give back to my community, church and schools; and to continue to inspire the youth. Pageantry is not about walking but more about community work and speaking. I host youth empowerment programmes and events to help the youth while advancing my oral skills,’ he said.
Mbanjwa, who also runs a modelling school, the Elite Achievers Agency, says the reason he has made it this far is his family support. He said going back to his modelling career and entering the competition has given him a chance to collaborate with different companies to promote their products and brands.
‘My journey has been phenomenal and exciting since it has opened doors for me to work with Caribbeantan Skincare, Dallmayr Coffee and Bio-Dermal skincare. Fashion designers have also started making my semi-final outfits such as TrulyTrends and photographers have approached me on social media such as Sizwe and Vince to work with them,’ he said.
This 7th international male beauty contest will be aired on SABC 3.
Words: Samukelisiwe Cele
Photograph: Supplied