Local youngster aims to make a difference
The 20-year-old from Palm Ridge was recently selected as one of 20 Mr Body Beautiful Gauteng 2023 semi-finalists.
Palm Ridge’s Nhlanhla Moloi is on a mission to use his voice to say something that actually matters, and he strongly advocates for change.
In 2022, Nhlanhla, the oldest of his siblings, completed his matric. He had high hopes of studying further and pursuing a qualification in supply chain management.
He passed his matric but was unable to get into university because of financial constraints. This had a toll on his mental health and confidence. But more than ever, he is determined to turn those trials into triumphs.
The 20-year-old was recently selected as one of Mr Body Beautiful Gauteng’s 2023 semi-finalists. Though he has never competed, his determination has taken him straight to the Top 20 to compete for the grand title.
Mr Body Beautiful is a leading pageant, a socially conscious movement for physically fit young men that lead healthy lifestyles and contribute positively to their communities.
Advocating for change
Nhlanhla described the pageant as a platform that cultivates African men as protectors of women, children, and their communities at large.
“Winning the competition will help bring back the focus on young men to take care of their bodies while looking after their mental well-being. Especially those suffering from anxiety, depression or stress related to joblessness.
That is how I got into exercise; to help clear my thoughts and become more confident in my own skin,” he explained.
According to his brother, Delani Majola, growing up as an extremely shy child, Nhlanhla decided to defy the odds.
“He decided to participate for the first time ever as a model and is now determined to help others with self-confidence. This self-determination and drive saw him landing up in the Top 20 and is currently leading with public votes. He encourages all to vote for him to help elevate his chances of winning and voting is free,” he said.
Nhlanhla said he never thought he could go this far and that this to him is a major accomplishment.
“I feel that I carry the hopes, dreams, and aspirations of my community. It has not been easy but every time there is a challenge and I meet other contestants, I tell myself that I belong in every room that I set foot in. And I am appreciative of all the support, even from strangers,” he said.
He reiterated that winning would change his life for the better.
Voting closes in August. To freely cast your vote click HERE.
