Fezile Mkhize of Oslo Beach made history when he was named the first black South African man to win the Mister Supranational competition.
The medical doctor, actor and television host was crowned after beating 35 competitors in Poland recently.
The former Port Shepstone High pupil thanked South Africans for their support, in particular Ladies House, a women’s social media group, who supported him from start to finish.
During the competition, Mkhize won the Mister Influencer Facebook Challenge, which guaranteed him a spot in the Top 20.
He explained that it was mostly members of Ladies House who rallied behind him during the Facebook Challenge.
“Ladies House is a great group. The women in my country are so powerful. They were the ones who were able to help me, especially in the social media part of the competition,” he said.
“They have always supported me because I am also proudly Zulu and proudly South African. That is always a beautiful thing because while I might have travelled the world, I also appreciate my country, and this always touches people’s hearts.”
Mkhize said that losing several family members recently encouraged him to work harder, live life fully and make a difference in the lives of others.
He said he has been through much difficulty but was confident he could always find the silver lining.
“Having experienced hard times gave me a lot of clarity at a young age, helping me feel my emotions and appreciate the impact people one can have on the lives of others.”
He said that sometimes the only difference between a hero and a villain is that while they may get hurt, the hero then chooses to make sure it doesn’t happen to others.
Meanwhile, Mister Supranational South Africa national director Stephen Segal said he was proud and honoured to have a man like Fezile as the new Mister Supranational.
“We only had a short time to prepare him to represent South Africa at Mister Supranational 2024,” said Segal.
“Dr Mkhize is a phenomenal, humble and inspiring human being. We are thrilled he has made history in winning this international title.”
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