Geluksdal resident Mpho Songo (26) is one of 20 finalists in the running to become the next Mr Prime SA.
Mr Prime SA is an annual philanthropic pageant which searches for individuals with great leadership skills who will be able to make a positive impact in their community.
The winner will represent South Africa in the Philippines at the Mr WorldWide 2020 pageant.
The impressive young man, who is also Mr Gauteng 2020, entered the pageant to prove to himself that his dream and vision are possible.
“I always knew I had more to give, more to do and more to prove to myself,” he said.
“We live in a world with endless opportunities and it’s our responsibility to grab it and make the most of it.”
Mpho has been in the modelling industry for two years and didn’t hesitate to enter the pageant when the opportunity crossed his path.
“I believe there is no such thing as the ‘right time’, we take the time and make it right,” he said.
“My insecurities and my lack of ‘industry experience’ didn’t stop me as there is room to grow and learn, and I was ready to take the leap.”
Mpho would like to use the title and platform to promote, advocate and educate others on matters close to his heart.
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“Organisations like ‘women and girl change-makers’, as well as youth groups, are close to my heart,? he explained.
“I want to reach out to our future leaders and inform them about the opportunities out there.
“I want to help up-and-coming models, artists and entrepreneurs on how to position themselves to be prepared for any opportunity that can come their way.
“A friend of mine once told me as you climb the ladder to success, it won’t hurt to leave the ladder behind for the next person to climb up too.
“I haven’t looked back on that, instead I do my utmost to leave a clear path for others to be able to follow as well.”
Mpho is a man with great ambition, who is also an entrepreneur.
The young businessman registered his own company, Roski and Projects, in 2016 at the age of 22.
“At Roski and Projects, we do architectural designing and consulting in the construction industry in Gauteng,” he said.
“I told my friends and business colleagues I will design and build five residences under my company before I turn 26 years old and everyone told me it was impossible.”
Mpho and his team have designed and built student accommodation, spaza shops, apartments in Johannesburg and eight residences in Geluksdal.
“I surpassed some of my ambitions and if I must be honest, even I at some point felt it would be impossible until it was done,” he added.
Two years ago, Mpho entered the Pitch Booster Competition 2018, a competition held for entrepreneurs in Gauteng.
Contestants had to pitch their business plans in one minute to a panel of judges.
Out of 250 entrepreneurs who were present, Mpho made it to the top 10 businesses with the best potential and they were each funded R40 000.
“Leadership is what I hold dear, as I believe we all have a social responsibility,” he said.
“My work is a direct reflection of me and that’s why I don’t take anything lightly.
“I strive to always give my best and do my best to exceed in the goals I set out for myself.”
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