eMalahleni model embraces provincial title
Siyabonga Mokoena is the proud Mr Mpumalanga Ambassador 2023, which allowed him the opportunity to become Mr Universe Tourism SA 2023.
“Being Mr Mpumalanga Ambassador for 2023 is a huge achievement. It feels good to bag a title in the leading male pageant in the province,” said Siyabonga Mokoena.
Obtaining this title has allowed Mokoena the opportunity to become Mr Universe Tourism SA 2023. He will represent the province and country in Indonesia at the fifth Mr Universe Tourism International competition from March 14 to 26, 2024.
This 22-year-old said he felt overwhelmed and victorious to be part of the winning trio that includes Mr Mpumalanga and Mr Mpumalanga Public Choice.
“I am very excited to do what I love with people in different corners of the world. Being in Indonesia will be an amazing experience and surely a motivation for young men that their dreams are valid. This will be great chance to not only advocate for boys, but to showcase the province’s tourism sector. I truly cannot wait to bring the title home,” he said.
Mokoena contended for a Mr Mpumalanga title for the second time, this time successfully. “Going back for the second time gave me a broader perspective of what was expected of me. I believe if I had won the first, I would not have been able to serve the right way. I was more prepared for the competition and resilience worked in my favour.”
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He said he is growing his Teach a Boy Child organisation in his home town, eMalahleni.
“Being Mr Mpumalanga Ambassador means being at the forefront to advocate for the protection of boys. My organisation is also about grooming young men to reach their full potential and to be global change makers.”
He said he is excited to elevate the lives of male children in the province through his new venture, Mr Teen Mpumalanga.
Mokoena said the aim for caring for young men and boys is for them to have a role model with whom they can relate.
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“I have learnt that looking up to someone who speaks the same language as me and eating the same food is an instant courage booster. I believe it is the same with the boys I am currently mentoring, because it is quite easy for us to form a bond because we have similar backgrounds.”
Not only is he passionate about bringing change to the community, but he is eager to be a hotshot in the media industry. He is a voice-over artist, an MC and award-winning radio personality.
