Carrying the Flag with Pride” – A.G Scott, SA’s Manhunt International Contender, Talks Purpose, Pressure, and Breaking Stereotypes
As South Africa prepares to take its place on the global stage at Manhunt International, all eyes are on A.G Scott, the man chosen to represent the nation. More than a pageant contestant, he’s an advocate, an athlete, and a voice for a new generation of young men. In this exclusive Q&A, Scott opens up about what it means to wear the South African sash, the discipline behind the spotlight, and why empowering the boy child is at the heart of his mission. Candid, confident, and grounded, here’s his take on competition, culture, and the road ahead.
Q: We’re stoked to have you representing SA on the international stage! What’s the most exciting part about competing at Manhunt International?
A: Honestly, the most exciting part is being able to represent South Africa and show the world the kind of talent, resilience, and culture we have here. It’s bigger than just a competition for me. It’s about carrying the South African flag with pride, meeting incredible people from around the world, and creating connections that can last a lifetime. I’m also excited to grow personally through the experience and learn from different cultures and perspectives.
Q: You’ve got a solid fitness background — how do you think that’s going to prepare you for the pageant?*
A: My fitness background has taught me discipline, consistency, and mental toughness. A pageant isn’t only about looking fit physically. It’s about confidence, presentation, work ethic, and being able to handle pressure. Fitness has helped me build a strong mindset and taught me how to stay focused on goals even when things get challenging.
Q: Your platform’s all about empowering the boy child — what’s your plan to make a real impact with this message on an international stage?
A: For me, it’s about breaking the stigma that men can’t be masculine and still compete in pageants. A lot of people still misunderstand what male pageantry is about. I want young boys and men to see that confidence, leadership, discipline, and self-expression can all exist together. Being part of pageantry doesn’t take away from your masculinity. If anything, it gives you a platform to grow and inspire others while still being true to yourself.
Q: What makes you stand out from the crowd, and why do you think you’re the one to take the top spot at the finals?
A: I think what makes me stand out is my authenticity. I’m not trying to be someone else. I’m proudly myself, and I carry my story, my values, and my country with confidence. I bring discipline, ambition, humility, and purpose into everything I do. Winning isn’t only about appearance. It’s about character, leadership, and impact. I believe I have the passion and determination to represent the title with meaning and inspire others globally.
Q: How ready are you to meet kings from other nations, and what are you hoping to learn from those countries?
A: I’m extremely excited and ready. One of the best parts of international competitions is the cultural exchange. Every contestant comes from a different background with unique experiences, traditions, and perspectives. I’m looking forward to learning about different cultures, how other countries approach pageantry, and building friendships and connections with contestants from around the world.
Q: Juggling advocacy work and pageant prep can be tough — how do you keep everything balanced?
A: Keeping everything balanced definitely takes discipline, but I rely a lot on my wife because she keeps me grounded and focused on the tasks ahead. Having that support system helps me stay motivated and reminds me why I started this journey in the first place. I also try to stay organised and take things one step at a time.
Q: There’s still a lot of support you’ve been receiving from your family — can you tell us more?
A: My biggest support is definitely my wife, along with my coaches and the entire Manhunt SA team. They’ve all been supporting, guiding, and encouraging me throughout this whole journey. Having people around me who genuinely believe in me has made a huge difference, and I’m grateful for the role each of them has played in helping me prepare for this international stage.
Q: If you win, what’s the first thing you’d do to promote men’s mental health and empowerment in the world, and which countries would you wish to tour to?*
A: If I win, I’d want to continue using my voice to encourage men and young boys to speak openly about mental health, confidence, and self-worth. It’s important for men to know they don’t always have to suffer in silence and that strength also comes from being able to express yourself honestly.
As for countries I’d love to tour, I’d definitely start with more of Africa because of the diversity and talent across the continent. I’d also love to experience countries in Asia and Europe, learn more about their cultures, and connect with people from different backgrounds around the world.
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