Gavin Thompsett, from Crystal Park, earned the title of Mr Benoni 2013.
The City Times caught up with the enthusiastic life-lover to unveil the personality behind the title owner.
Gavin is 21 years of age and currently a project manager at DB Thermal.
With his new title, he is hoping to change the competition by shifting the focus from the glitz and glamour to the importance of committing to the charity work that comes with it.
“A lot of people focus on the title of Mr and Miss Benoni without noticing the charity work that lies ahead,” he said.
He entered the pageant for the second time this year, as he enjoyed it so much the previous year.
“I met some nice people and had fun times,” he explained.
When asked what his favourite part of this year’s competition was, his answer was: “Hearing my name called out.”
He said he did not expect to win and thought that Caylen Naidoo, who claimed the Benoni City Times People’s Choice Award would take the crown.
In his spare time he is a jack of all trades who enjoys riding horses and is also skilled in playing rugby, playing the guitar and singing.
Gavin enjoys going out with his friends and playing Xbox with his friend, Gustav Richter.
He is currently dating Bianca Paulsen, his co-winner of the debutante title in the pageant.
Bianca said she is happy for Gavin.
“I am very proud of him,” she said.
His advice to the young men of Benoni is: “Be dedicated to whatever the goal is.”
“If someone says you cannot do something, work twice as hard to prove them wrong.
“Don’t hold back. My life has been full of people who said I cannot do stuff and I ended up accomplishing a lot more than I thought I would.
“As far as relationships go, have fun, but if you find the right girl, make her your everything.”
He stays in shape by working out at Trinergy Health and Fitness Centre and practising Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu with head coach Brandon Newman.
“I train four to five times with Brandon in a good week,” he said.
“When it comes to food, I eat anything and everything that is put in front of me,” he laughed.
Gavin matriculated from St Dunstan’s College and has always been a model.
His plans for the future include becoming South Africa’s best draftsman, opening his own business and being happy and settled with his wife.
About the year ahead he said: “I am a bit nervous of the unexpected, but I am looking forward to it more than being fearful and scared.”
