Mawande Qeqe has been named as the proud SA representative of the Mr Universe International 2023 pageant next month in Panama City.
The 38-year-old began his journey in pageantry as a hobby.
“Growing up. I used to enter pageants at primary school.
“My passion grew but I didn’t follow it until one of the guys told me to consider a professional agency. That’s when I joined Extreme Models and Beauty, excelling in runway and photographic,” Qeqe said.
In 2016, Qeqe challenged himself by entering Mr SA, where he made to the semifinal.
Mr Tourism World SA 2018, Manhunt SA 2018 and Mr Glam International 2019 followed.
The Mr Universe International will see Qeqe compete against representatives from 25 other countries.
“As this is my last international pageant, I want to make sure I represent SA to the best of my ability.”
Qeqe is using his platform to advocate for education and mental health and under the tagline ‘Men do cry’, he encourages young men and boys to be open about their emotions and seek help.
“As a person who suffered from depression, I want to educate and motivate young men and boys that its ok not to be ok. You don’t have to suffer alone, seek help. I feel like it’s my duty to create this awareness and take it to the global stage in order to change this narrative, with the help of my brothers from another country,” he said.
Follow Qeqe’s journey on his social media platforms or the official Mr Universe International Instagram page.
