A local entertainer is setting his sights on taking the Mr South Africa 2018 title.
Sunil Osman has been working in the entertainment industry for a number of years as an actor who also does presenting, emcee work, speaking and coaching.
As a born and bred Capetonian, he completed his tertiary education in Cape Town, after which he travelled the world as an international auctioneer. He is the also the managing director of his own company, which is still being established, and recently started working in real estate.
Speaking of his Mr South Africa 2018 entry he said, “It has been quite a journey thus far. The competition is real, especially because I am one of the older gentlemen. What is really sticking out for me is how being well travelled and a proud South African makes a difference.”
The coronation of Mr South Africa 2018 will take place in March.
The Randburg Sun chatted to Osman to find out more about what inspires him in life and what drove him to enter the competition.
What inspired you to enter the entertainment industry?
I love what I do, making people smile, and passion. The thrill is an adrenalin rush for live performances. As a freelancer, it is a lot about getting booked. I started freelancing after a third retrenchment 14 years ago. It is a hurry up and wait game. Always being ready to perform no matter what is going on in your life can be hard at times. It can be quite competitive.
How did you get involved in Mr South Africa?
This is quite a funny story. A friend of mine tagged me in a post when they were looking for the next Mr. SA. I responded by asking if there isn’t a body hair and height requirement. The CEO sent me a private message to say that is not what Mr. SA is about and I should enter. I did the interview and submitted pictures as required. Two weeks later I got an e-mail to congratulate me on making it to the top 50.
What is it like being a Mr South Africa contestant?
I often have people saying how I am a ‘real’ Mr South Africa. Getting votes as the ‘people’s choice’ has proven to be quite a task.
Have you competed in similar events in the past?
I have previously won a cover boy competition for a magazine and was also voted as one of the top eligible bachelors for an Indian magazine a few years ago.
Is there any advice you can give to the community?
Find your big ‘why’. Why do you do what you do? Why do you live the life you do? What is your reason for waking up each and every day? Find your passion and do not let anyone tell you that you cannot do it. Do your best to block out any form of negativity, because in a world with so much negativity, we need more love, respect and positivity. Keep smiling and just be happy. This is something I speak about in my book.
Is inspiration a passion of yours?
There is such great pleasure in seeing people do well. I often get approached by people young and old who just want to speak about life or get advice on the entertainment industry. I make time when I can and never turn anyone away. I wrote a book of quotes to inspire and motivate people. It is what I call ‘soul work’ and has been well received internationally. After much meditation, I decided to allow it for free download off my website.
How do we vote for you?
By sending the code MRSA41 via SMS to 40439 in South Africa. Internationally the SMS should be sent to +2740439 (R2 per SMS, VAS rates apply), and you can vote as many times as you like.
How can people get in contact with you?
Social media and my website contact page is the best way to contact me. I chose many years ago to respond personally and I do this when I can.
Details: www.sunilosman.com
