Sky’s the limit for model, Mkhize
The 20-year-old said he is still working on his own brand to better establish himself in the modelling circles.
NORTHDENE resident, Siphesihle Mkhize, was crowned Mr KZN Top Model SA recently. He said the win was unexpected but welcome.
“The competition was actually the first pageant I’ve ever entered and I am grateful to have won it, I am humbled.”
“I entered the pageant for a new experience in the field and wanted to gain exposure. It’s amazing, designers and agencies I had only seen on TV are now calling me, wanting to work with me. My motto is work hard, stay humble and dream big,” said Mkhize.
He said modelling is something that came naturally to him, and juggling it with school is a challenge.
“I think the first person to help me realise my potential was my rugby coach at Northdene Preparatory School, Julian Coutts. He took me out of my comfort zone and always encouraged me to give that extra bit. I was later scouted by one of the most well known modelling agencies, Boss Models. The industry itself is quite demanding and I have my school work so it was quite a challenge as I am competing against models who do it for a living.
“For preparation, I watched a lot of competitions, familiarising myself with the format, especially with the question and answer section. I knew what kind of questions the judges would ask me and I probably scored more points when it came to that part of the competition. Since my win, I have also been a judge in a modelling competition for Mr and Miss Ballito Dolphins. It felt different being on the other side of the table,” he said.
Mkhize’s duties as Mr KZN Top Model SA include community participation projects where he works closely with Cheshire Home.
“I figured I’d give back to Queensburgh first as this is where I grew up. I also want to work with similar organisations in the area during my reign.”
The 20-year-old said he is still working on his own brand to better establish himself in the modelling circles.
“Starting out was not easy. Clients don’t know you so it’s hard to establish yourself . All you can do is take a leap of faith. I’d like to thank my personal trainer, Wayne Rust for getting me into shape just in time for the competition and Clive Hadebe from KZN Top Model.
“I want to encourage the youth to never give up on their dreams. To always believe in themselves and stick to what they’re good at. It’s not going to happen overnight but there are two things that can define you – your patience when you have nothing and your attitude when you have everything,” he said.
Mkhize is studying Heavy Current Electric and said, with a broad smile, that the sky is the limit.
