Northmead resident and Mr Benoni 2018 Charl Steyn won more than the title in his first attempt, he also had his expectations exceeded and met his best friend through the pageant.
“I thought that being Mr Benoni would bring me more confidence, which it has, but is has also opened up my personal and business life to more possibilities,” the 25-year-old said.
“Through this journey, I have learnt self-worth and self-preservation.
“I’ve seen how to adapt to a unique way of thinking and thinking out the box.”
During his reign, Charl attended the following events:
• Christmas Fashion show
• The Lazy Grape ladies high tea
• Benoni Northerns Open day
• Mr and Miss Farrarmere Primary
• Model of the Year for Rampage Modelling Agency.
“Through the learning process of Mr Benoni, I would like to carry on being as confident as what I am at this current point in time, as it has really helped with communication and social skills,” he said.
“Self-preservation would be the key thing I would like not to change as it has really helped me move forward with my business. I have been working non-stop for the success of it and I would like to help where I can and hopefully give back and change lives the way Mr Benoni changed mine.”
Charl added that the pageant is one of the best platforms for confidence as it really pushes contestants out of their comfort zone.
“It gives you the opportunity to meet other people with like-minded interests,” he said.
“You are able to give back and help others’ lives in a way you would never know.
“My biggest change came in my personal life, where my social status and communication status changed into something I never thought it could be.”
The photographer said if he could redo the year he would continue doing more for the community and for the less fortunate.
“I feel I can give back more being behind it, by showing people how beautiful they really are,” he concluded.
