Discipline, compassion and drive are what propel Sir South Africa 2020, Daniel Asiwe (25), to continue pressing forward to help with community development.
Asiwe was crowned as Sir SA 2020 late in August. Due to the lockdown restrictions, the crowning ceremony took place virtually.
His journey to Sir SA started last November. The experience was educational as he learnt a few lessons, like knowing when to laugh a little whenever challenges came his way. Overall, he enjoyed the experience. “I feel honoured and humbled to be entrusted with such a prestigious title,” he said.
The other accolades he was awarded were the Face of South Africa 2020, best evening wear, best interview wear, best interview, photogenic, best-themed wear and best ramp walk.
Daniel’s journey in pageantry began in 2011 when the owner of a talent academy scouted him. Some of the pageants he participated in include Mr Teen Potchefstroom, Mr Teen Promosa and Mr Teen Ikageng. The more time he spent participating in pageants, the more his passion developed, as he enjoys a good challenge. He then started competing provincially, nationally and continentally. He was crowned Mr Universal South Africa 2018 and was the Face of South Africa 2018. He was also Mr Africa’s first prince in 2018.
The opportunity to be involved in community development motivates him to keep on working harder to achieve more so that he can make a positive impact. “Each title brings about new opportunities to build the community and be a positive role model to the youth of South Africa,” he said.
He hopes his achievement will motivate the youth to believe that whatever they set their mind to, they can achieve.
He believes his passion for youth development, education, entrepreneurship and leadership will be fuelled, which will allow him to give back to the community at large.
Apart from pageantry, Daniel is a student at the North-West University (NWU). He is currently studying Industrial Psychology and Labour Relations. He also possesses leadership accolades. Daniel is the regional director for Pageants SA, the head of finance for Students Advocating Leadership and Transformation (Salt) at NWU, the brand ambassador for Enactus NWU, project leader for the student Rag community service and many more.
In his spare time, he enjoys travelling, dancing, playing chess, mentoring and driving youth initiatives.
With all that he has achieved, Daniel remains focused, motivated and persistent in achieving excellence. His motto is Philippians 4:13, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
He encourages the youth to take time to invest in their crafts, believe in themselves, surround themselves with positive role models and pursue lifelong learning.
