Kwa-Thema – Mpendulo Mabaso (27) is the second runner-up in one of the most prestigious male pageants in the world, Mr World South Africa.
The event took place at Monte De Dios, in Pretoria, on August 3.
“I didn’t expect it, because at that point I was already in the top five, which I thought was a great achievement.
“I just thought, ‘we did it’. I was really pleased,” said Mabaso, explaining how he felt when his name was called.
Mabaso, Samual Chauk and Mnceedi Leje made history as the first all-black top three since the inception of the pageant.
He also acknowledges his pageantry career has grown in leaps and bounds in a short space of time.
“It was only last year when a friend told me I should try pageantry, because I possess star quality.
“I did research to see what the industry was about,” he added.
Mabaso said he was pleasantly surprised to discover pageantry is not only about looking good and walking across the stage.
“Many of those who compete in pageantry have established careers. They use their platforms to impact change.
“And most pageants focus on community building,” he explained.
Mabaso competed in Miss and Mr Supranational, last year, where he was in the top 10. He also co-founded Healing Lives with his friend Sibusiso Radebe.
“Our aim is to support child-headed homes and recently disabled young people.
“We don’t only want to address their financial needs but want to build relationships with them.
“We want them to know we are here for them always,” he added.
Mabaso said the organisation plans to expand and offer Grade 12 learners tutorials and assistance with applying for university.
“I hope young people will find me relatable. I want them to see that a boy from ekasi can achieve great things if you dare to dream,” he said.
Mabaso believes this win will not slow him down but help him to do more for his community.
Follow him on Facebook: Mpendulo Mabasa, on X and Instagram: @_MpenduloMabaso
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