With the aim of raising the South African flag high, Mr Mpumalanga 2024’s second runner-up, Nicholas Banda, is heading to Legazpi City in the Philippines in a few months to compete in Mr Tourism Globe 2024.
This 21-year-old model from KaBokweni said he has already started preparing for his trip, and he plans to bag the title. The week-long competition is set for September 28 until October 4.
“This will be my first time leaving South Africa, and I am up for the challenge to represent myself as an authentic citizen of Mzansi. I am quite excited to see the Asian country and take in its beauty and interact with the people,” he said.
Banda, who is an avid giver, said he aims to educate people about SA, its tourism attractions and the beauty of its people. “As part of my preparations for the competition, I am spending some time in the gym and researching a lot of about SA’s tourism sector to strengthen my advocacies. I aim to educate people about our biodiversity, conservation and flora and fauna, which play a vital role in maintaining the economic growth of the country.”
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During an exclusive interview with Mpumalanga News, he teased that his attire in the native country’s national costume segment of the competition would be impressive.
“The attire will definitely present the Rainbow Nation, as beautiful as it is. Despite this opportunity being quite challenging, I am proud to be the one who gets to showcase on this platform. I aim to come back with the title of Mr Tourism Globe 2024.”
Banda said he never thought competing in Mr Mpumalanga 2024 would secure him an opportunity like this one. Becoming the second runner-up, he automatically advanced to the national title as Mr Tourism Globe South Africa, allowing him to take on the global competition.
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“As much as I put work in to achieve this new dream of mine, I would like to encourage locals to assist in sponsorships that will make this dream more achievable,” he said.
